Louisiana Senate Bill SR174

Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/2/17
• Passed: 6/3/17

Caption

Requests the Senate Fiscal Affairs staff to report annually information relative to state funds distributed to local government entities.

Impact

The implementation of SR174 would enhance the legislature's ability to monitor and understand financial distributions to local government entities. By mandating a yearly report, senators would gain access to up-to-date information that could significantly inform their decision-making processes regarding future appropriations. This initiative aims to streamline the budgetary process and ensure that there is proper documentation and tracking of state funding, which could ultimately lead to more effective financial oversight and resource allocation for local governments.

Summary

Senate Resolution 174, sponsored by Senator Hewitt, addresses the need for transparency and accountability regarding state funds distributed to local governmental entities. This resolution urges the Senate Fiscal Affairs staff to compile and report annually to each member of the Senate the details concerning the state monies appropriated for distribution to local governments. Information required includes the funding source, the entity receiving the funds, and the total amount received, providing a clearer picture of the fiscal relationships between the state and local government bodies.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SR174 seems to be supportive, particularly among those who value governmental transparency and fiscal responsibility. The resolution is perceived as a positive step towards empowering legislators with the necessary information to make informed decisions regarding budget appropriations and financial management. However, some may view the increased reporting requirements as additional bureaucratic processes that could burden fiscal staff or lead to delays in accessing funds.

Contention

While the resolution appears to garner positive feedback regarding transparency, there are likely concerns about the operational impact on the Senate Fiscal Affairs staff. The loading of additional reporting duties could be seen as a potential source of contention, especially if it leads to debates about the efficiency and capacity of resources allocated for such reporting. Nevertheless, the overarching goal of ensuring that local governments are adequately informed about state financial distributions establishes a critical dialogue about accountability in public finance.