Louisiana Senate Bill SB446

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/18
• Refer: 3/2/18
• Refer: 3/12/18
• Report Pass: 3/20/18
• Engrossed: 3/28/18
• Refer: 3/29/18
• Report Pass: 4/18/18
• Enrolled: 5/8/18
• Chaptered: 5/15/18
• Passed: 5/15/18

Caption

Re-creates the Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness. (6/30/18)

Impact

The impact of SB 446 on state laws primarily concerns the structure and operational authority of the Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness. As the bill repealed a previous provision scheduled to end the office's existence, it prevents a lapse in critical emergency management capabilities and maintains a continuity of leadership and strategic operations for addressing disasters and emergencies within the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 446 is designed to re-create the Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, affirming its existence and authority after it was set to cease operations due to a prior termination schedule. This bill establishes that the office is continued effective June 30, 2018, and sets a new statutory frame for its operation to persist into the future. In essence, it aims to ensure that the state's emergency management resources and responsibilities remain intact within the governing framework.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB 446 appeared to be positive, as the bill passed unanimously with no dissenting votes in the House. This suggests a broad agreement across party lines regarding the necessity of having a robust structure for emergency preparedness. Lawmakers recognized the importance of having a specialized office to manage homeland security and preparedness efforts.

Contention

Notable points of contention may have included discussions surrounding the legislative appropriateness of re-creating statutory offices and the ongoing financial and resource commitments associated with such entities. However, the absence of opposition during discussions indicates that, at least at the time of voting, there was a consensus regarding the necessity of ensuring the sustained functionality of the Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness.