Requests the governor to add Beauregard Parish, Vernon Parish, Allen Parish, and Rapides Parish to the areas covered by the request for a federal disaster declaration for Hurricane Delta
Impact
If enacted, HCR34 would potentially facilitate the inclusion of the specified parishes in federal disaster relief programs, which would provide necessary resources for recovery. This could lead to financial aid for residents and businesses affected by the storm, assisting in the repair of homes and infrastructure. The bill reflects the state's ongoing response to natural disasters and underscores the importance of federal support in mitigating the long-term impacts of such events on local communities.
Summary
HCR34, a House Concurrent Resolution, requests Governor John Bel Edwards to add Beauregard Parish, Vernon Parish, Allen Parish, and Rapides Parish to the areas being considered for a federal disaster declaration following the devastation caused by Hurricane Delta. The resolution outlines the extensive damage caused by the hurricane, which made landfall on October 9, 2020, as well as the ongoing struggles faced by residents, including many who are still recovering from the prior impacts of Hurricane Laura. The resolution emphasizes the need for federal assistance in terms of recovery and rebuilding efforts.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR34 appears to be predominantly supportive, reflecting a collective urgency among legislators to address the immediate needs of the affected populations. With strong backing in the legislature, the resolution gained significant attention as a means to expedite assistance. However, there are likely some concerns regarding the availability of federal funds and the bureaucratic processes involved in disaster declarations, although these were not focal points in the discussions captured around the bill.
Contention
Notably, while the resolution aims to instigate a timely response to a clear natural disaster, the effectiveness of state requests for federal aid can sometimes be hindered by political and administrative challenges. There may be differing opinions regarding the extent of the damage reported, or debates on whether all areas cited in the resolution had experienced similar levels of impact. Such discourse could influence future considerations of disaster aid and resource allocation.
Directs the allocation of federal funds received due to Hurricane Isaac to parishes based on the amount of damage sustained within the parish. (EN SEE FISC NOTE FF EX See Note)
Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to take all necessary measures to ensure that the Calcasieu and Cameron parish school systems are not penalized in terms of funding due to Hurricane Laura
Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to discuss possible adjustments to the Minimum Foundation Program formula in order to ensure adequate funding for school systems affected by Hurricane Laura or Hurricane Delta
Urges and requests the state treasurer to provide for an extension for residents of Cameron and Calcasieu parishes to apply for funds available through the Louisiana Main Street Recovery Program (OR SEE FISC NOTE SD EX)
Requests LCTCS and Sowela administrators to work together to study the impacts of hurricanes Laura and Delta on the institution and its student body in order to inform any legislative requests for the 2021 Regular Session.
Requests BESE to adopt adjustments to the MFP formula to ensure that school districts impacted by Hurricane Laura do not lose funding during the 2020-2021 fiscal year due to decreases in student enrollment.