Louisiana House Bill HB59

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/18
• Refer: 2/7/18
• Refer: 3/12/18

Caption

Provides relative to the post-service restrictions applicable to certain public servants

Impact

The bill's provisions aim to prevent conflicts of interest by extending the cooling-off period for former public servants from the current two-year limit to four years. This modification aligns with the existing ethics laws while placing a stronger emphasis on preventing former officials from leveraging their government experience for personal gain in subsequent roles. This change is anticipated to bolster public trust in governmental operations by ensuring that former officials remain detached from previous departmental dealings well beyond their tenure.

Summary

House Bill 59 introduces specific post-service restrictions for former public servants of the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD). These restrictions prohibit former public servants from assisting others for compensation in transactions linked to their former departments for a period of four years after their public service. Additionally, legal entities associated with these former public servants are similarly restricted, enhancing accountability and integrity in the processes and transactions associated with these departments.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 59 appears to be largely supportive, particularly among proponents of governmental transparency and ethics reform. Supporters argue that extending the restrictions reflects a commitment to ethical governance and mitigates the potential for undue influence in public contracts and decisions. However, there could be some contention regarding the potential impacts on career mobility for former officials, who may argue that such extended prohibitions could limit their professional opportunities after leaving public service.

Contention

The main point of contention involves the balance between ensuring ethical standards and providing fair opportunities for public servants transitioning back into the private sector. Critics may argue that the extended restrictions could unduly penalize individuals who have served honorably in public office, potentially leading to a scarcity of experienced professionals willing to enter public service if they perceive the post-service limitations as excessive.