Louisiana House Bill HB507

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/18
• Refer: 3/2/18
• Refer: 3/12/18

Caption

Establishes an annual dedication of revenues for the Community Water Enrichment Fund

Impact

The implications of HB 507 are significant for state laws concerning water funding and community infrastructure. By providing a dedicated funding stream for the Community Water Enrichment Fund, the bill aims to address long-standing issues related to inadequate water systems in rural areas. This law will ensure that these communities can access vital resources, improving public health and safety standards overall. The requirement for annual adjustments based on inflation will also help maintain the purchasing power of the funds over time.

Summary

House Bill 507, introduced by Representative LeBas, establishes an annual dedication of revenues for the Community Water Enrichment Fund. This fund is designed specifically to support the rehabilitation, improvement, and construction of community water systems that provide drinking water to small rural communities in Louisiana. With the bill's provisions, it mandates an annual allocation of $5 million, which will be adjusted for inflation in subsequent years, aimed at enhancing the quality and availability of potable water in underserved areas.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment towards HB 507 appears to be positive, with supporters emphasizing the critical need for reliable water infrastructure in rural Louisiana. Advocates argue that the bill reflects a commitment to addressing disparities in water access and promoting equitable development across the state. Although specific opposition is not highlighted in the discussions, the bill's implications raise broader concerns about the state’s role in funding local infrastructure projects, pointing to the ongoing dialogue about state versus local governance in addressing community needs.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the allocation of resources and the political decisions surrounding the fund's management. Discussions could center on how effectively the state treasurer administers the funds, as well as how priorities are determined for projects funded by the Community Water Enrichment Fund. Stakeholders may debate whether $5 million annually is sufficient to meet all community needs, particularly as various rural systems face different levels of challenges and urgencies in their infrastructure.