Louisiana House Bill HB479

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/19
• Refer: 3/29/19
• Refer: 4/8/19
• Report Pass: 5/1/19
• Engrossed: 5/15/19
• Refer: 5/16/19
• Report Pass: 5/20/19
• Enrolled: 5/29/19
• Chaptered: 6/6/19
• Passed: 6/6/19

Caption

Establishes the New Orleans Ferry Fund and provides for the use of the monies in the fund (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD EX See Note)

Impact

The implications of HB 479 are significant for transportation strategies within the New Orleans area, particularly as the state government seeks to solidify funding mechanisms for crucial public transit services. The establishment of a dedicated fund allows for a more stable financial framework from which ferry services can operate, potentially leading to enhanced service reliability. By ensuring continuous ferry operations, the bill aims to preserve vital transportation links for residents and tourists alike, supporting the local economy and accessibility in the region.

Summary

House Bill 479 establishes the New Orleans Ferry Fund aimed at ensuring the continued operation of specific ferry services in the area. The fund is created as a special treasury fund, with the intention of supporting the operations of the Chalmette ferry and ferry services that were previously part of the Crescent City Connection Division. Starting from July 1, 2019, the law mandates the deposit of funds derived from registration and license fees and taxes collected in the parish of Orleans into this new fund, for the purpose of ferry operations. The legislation also stipulates that the funds can only be used after annual appropriation by the legislature and are required to be in addition to any existing contributions from the Department of Transportation and Development's budget.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 479 appears to be positive, particularly among supporters of public transportation initiatives. Legislators and advocates who favor the bill recognize the necessity of keeping ferry services operational for improved transit options. Despite consistent bipartisan support reflected in its voting history— passing with a unanimous vote in the legislature—there may still be ongoing discussions about resource allocation and the sustainable management of the fund over the long term.

Contention

While HB 479 has garnered general support, discussions may arise concerning the prioritization of funds and the potential need for oversight in fund management. Some stakeholders could express concerns about financial transparency and whether the funds allocated are being utilized efficiently to maximize public benefits. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the adequacy of the funding levels derived from registration and license fees, asserting that a broader financial strategy may be necessary to ensure comprehensive ferry operations in the future.