Louisiana House Bill HB760

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/18
• Refer: 4/2/18

Caption

Requires agencies to provide specified information to the legislature upon request

Impact

The impact of HB 760 on state laws is significant as it amends existing legal frameworks concerning information access within government. It places an obligation on executive entities to cooperate with legislative requests for information and introduces mechanisms to enforce compliance, including the ability for the legislature to pursue legal action in cases of noncompliance. This move is seen as a step towards reinforcing legislative power and oversight in state governance, particularly concerning transparency and accountability.

Summary

House Bill 760 mandates that all departments, agencies, and officials within the executive branch of state government in Louisiana promptly provide requested information to the legislature. This legislation seeks to enhance oversight by ensuring that legislators have access to the same information the governor can obtain regarding state programs and services. By facilitating direct access, the bill aims to empower the legislature in performing its functions and duties effectively, thereby increasing governmental transparency.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 760 among lawmakers appears to be largely positive, especially among those advocating for greater transparency in government. Proponents emphasize that the bill will foster a culture of openness and enable legislators to have the necessary information to effectively oversee state programs. However, there may also be some concerns regarding the potential for overreach or the implications of increased access to sensitive information, suggesting a need for a careful balance between transparency and confidentiality.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the required maintenance of confidentiality for privileged information designated as confidential, which raises questions about the boundaries of access to information. While the bill strengthens legislative inquiry powers, the balance between necessary oversight and protecting sensitive state data could be contentious among various stakeholders. The enforcement mechanism—allowing the legislature to seek a writ of mandamus for noncompliance—may also lead to debates about the appropriate limits of legislative authority over the executive branch.