Louisiana House Bill HR309

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/5/19
• Passed: 6/6/19

Caption

Urges and requests the Department of Transportation and Development to reconsider the standard specifications for certain construction techniques and procedures

Impact

The resolution also highlights significant concerns regarding the impact of these specifications on construction costs and project timelines. The introduction of surface resistivity testing has forced contractors to source more expensive and labor-intensive materials due to the unavailability of local rock like limestone. This, in turn, has reported delays in project completion and increased financial burdens on contractors, impacting their worker compensation. Thus, the bill seeks not only to ensure quality but also to maintain economic feasibility in construction practices.

Summary

House Resolution 309 urges the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) to study and reconsider standard specifications for certain construction techniques and procedures. Specifically, it addresses the recent changes made to the standard specifications, which now require surface resistivity testing for all structural class concretes. The resolution emphasizes the complexity and potential unreliability of the current resistivity testing methods, which are critical for determining the suitability and performance of concrete in construction projects.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HR 309 appears to be supportive among those involved in the construction industry, particularly contractors who have experienced the repercussions of the changes in specifications. By advocating for a reconsideration of these standards, the resolution reflects a collective desire for practical and economically viable methods that do not compromise construction quality. There is an implied acknowledgment that stringent standards, while necessary for safety, must also be implemented in a realistic manner that considers existing economic conditions and material availability.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the reliability of the resistivity measurement methods and the practicality of enforcing standards that vendors and contractors find difficult to meet due to resource constraints. Critics may argue about the potential long-term benefits that these regulations might afford versus the immediate challenges they pose to project completion and cost management. As the DOTD is tasked with providing a written report evaluating their standards based on reliability and cost-effectiveness, this resolution sets the stage for further discussions about balancing regulatory mandates with industry realities.