Louisiana House Bill HB42

Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/6/17
• Refer: 3/6/17
• Refer: 4/10/17

Caption

Provides that the position of district captain for Ward 6 Fire Protection District No. 1 of Calcasieu Parish is in the unclassified service

Impact

The enactment of HB 42 will alter the employment framework within the specific fire protection district by facilitating a more flexible appointment and oversight process for the district captain role. It means that the governing body of the Ward 6 Fire Protection District can make choices regarding personnel without adhering to the stricter regulations that govern classified service positions. This change could lead to quicker hiring processes and potentially more responsive governance within the fire protection district, which advocates argue will improve overall operational efficiency.

Summary

House Bill 42, introduced by Representative Danahay, focuses on the civil service structure in the Ward 6 Fire Protection District No. 1 of Calcasieu Parish. The bill specifically states that the position of district captain in this district is classified as being in the unclassified service. This designation allows for a different set of regulations, primarily that the right to select, appoint, supervise, and discharge a district captain will rest with the governing board of the fire protection district, deviating from the standard civil service rules applicable to classified positions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 42 appears to be generally favorable among supporters who view it as a necessary adaptation to contemporary needs of local governance in the fire protection sector. Conversely, there may be some apprehension among those who adhere to more traditional civil service protections, as the unclassified designation grants more discretion to the governing board and may lead to concerns over job security for future appointees. However, specific instances of opposition to the bill were not documented in the discussions available.

Contention

Potential points of contention regarding HB 42 could arise from broader implications for civil service protections across different districts and the nature of governance in community services. Critics might raise concerns that moving a key position into the unclassified realm could lead to nepotism or favoritism in appointments. Despite the likely administrative benefits intended by this bill, ongoing discussions could center around the balance of governance, local control versus oversight, and how similar measures could affect other positions within the civil service in Louisiana.