Louisiana House Bill HB528

Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/31/17
• Refer: 3/31/17
• Refer: 4/10/17
• Report Pass: 5/10/17
• Refer: 5/11/17
• Report Pass: 5/22/17

Caption

Provides relative to the outcomes-based funding formula for public postsecondary education (RE SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

Impact

The implications of HB 528 on state laws are significant as it introduces a structured and formalized process for managing the outcomes-based funding formula for public postsecondary institutions. By transitioning the power to approve funding formulas from the Board of Regents to an independent panel, the bill aims to ensure that funding decisions reflect the input of various stakeholders, including faculty, students, and educational boards. This approach is expected to enhance accountability and encourage a more data-driven method of funding public higher education.

Summary

House Bill 528 aims to reform the funding allocation process for public postsecondary education in Louisiana by creating the Public Postsecondary Education Funding Formula Panel. This bill mandates that annual funding allocations, developed using audited data, must be submitted to this newly established panel by the Board of Regents. Additionally, the panel, consisting of seven members including university presidents and members appointed by the governor and legislative bodies, will have the necessary authority to approve or reject these allocations based on a majority vote. This change is intended to introduce more accountability and transparency into the funding process for higher education institutions in the state.

Sentiment

Discussions around HB 528 suggest a generally supportive sentiment among proponents who see it as a positive step toward enhancing financial oversight in higher education funding. However, there are concerns expressed by opponents regarding the possible limitations the panel might impose on the funding process and the bureaucracy that could arise from requiring a panel approval for financial allocations. Lawmakers' sentiments indicate a divide between those who prioritize systematic oversight and those who advocate for more direct control by existing educational authorities.

Contention

The primary contention surrounding the bill relates to the balance of power between the Board of Regents and the new funding formula panel. Critics argue that the introduction of this panel may add layers of bureaucracy that could slow down decision-making processes and potentially hinder educational institutions' access to necessary funding. Proponents, on the other hand, stress that this shift will promote more structured evaluations of funding needs, ultimately leading to better resource distribution across postsecondary education in Louisiana.