Louisiana Senate Bill SCR84

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/2/16
• Refer: 5/3/16
• Report Pass: 5/11/16
• Passed: 5/12/16
• Engrossed: 5/12/16
• Refer: 5/13/16
• Report Pass: 5/23/16

Caption

Requests the division of administration to provide a report of all of the reports required of the executive branch by statute or resolution.

Impact

The significant impact of SCR84 lies in its potential to streamline reporting processes within state agencies. By requiring a survey of the utility of mandated reports, the resolution aspires to identify reports that may be superfluous or ineffective. This systematic reassessment could lead to reducing the administrative burden placed on state employees and providing financial benefits through streamlined operations. If implemented effectively, this could free up resources currently tied up in unnecessary reporting, thereby potentially improving service delivery and reducing costs associated with producing those reports.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 84 (SCR84) aims to address the state of Louisiana's fiscal challenges by evaluating the reporting requirements imposed on the executive branch. The resolution requests that the division of administration compile a comprehensive report detailing all reports mandated by law or resolution. This initiative stems from the recognition that the state's budgetary shortfalls have led to widespread vacancy in state departments, requiring remaining employees to shoulder increased workloads. Consequently, revealing and reassessing the necessity of these reports is deemed essential for enhancing administrative efficiency.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SCR84 appears to be supportive, particularly among those who advocate for government efficiency and fiscal responsibility. Legislators recognize the necessity of addressing the increasing demands on state employees, which some view as unsustainable under current budget constraints. However, there may be concerns regarding which reports could be deemed unnecessary and the potential impacts on transparency and accountability in government operations—elements that are vitally important for maintaining public trust.

Contention

Notably, SCR84 navigates a fine line between regulatory compliance and administrative efficiency. The primary contention rests on the balance between reducing burdensome reporting requirements and ensuring that all necessary data is collected for effective governance. Some may argue that eliminating certain reports could impede legislative oversight of executive branch functioning, while others may assert that such changes are crucial to adapt to the state's current financial realities. This discourse highlights an essential debate about the role of reporting in government and the need for continuous evaluation of its necessity.