Abolishes the Louisiana Rice Research Board and the Louisiana Rice Promotion Board and creates the Louisiana Rice Promotion and Research Board. (8/01/16)
The bill significantly impacts state laws regarding the oversight and promotion of the rice industry. By establishing a singular governing body, it seeks to streamline activities related to rice production and marketing in Louisiana. This reorganization is designed to enhance efficiency and foster a more coordinated approach to addressing challenges faced by Louisiana rice farmers in a competitive global market.
Senate Bill 437 aims to restructure rice governance in Louisiana by abolishing the Louisiana Rice Research Board and the Louisiana Rice Promotion Board, creating instead the Louisiana Rice Promotion and Research Board. This new board will have enhanced functions and the authority to promote rice production and research effectively. It is composed of ten members, mostly appointed by the governor and representing different stakeholders in the rice industry, including producers and financiers.
Reactions to the bill appear to be generally positive among agricultural stakeholders, particularly those engaged in rice production. Supporters argue that consolidating the boards will lead to more effective advocacy for the state's rice industry at both national and international levels. However, concerns exist about ensuring that the new board adequately represents the diverse interests within the rice farming community and does not prioritize larger producers over smaller ones.
Notable points of contention within the discussions surrounding SB 437 include the distribution of power among board members and the potential for the new board's governance structure to influence commodity markets disproportionately. There are apprehensions over the board's proposed activities being restricted from influencing state-level legislation, focusing only on national and international policy. This limitation is intended to maintain a non-political stance while addressing commercial interests more effectively.