Louisiana House Bill HB679

Louisiana 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/20
• Refer: 2/28/20
• Refer: 3/9/20

Caption

Provides relative to the sale and lease of immovable property by the secretary of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism

Impact

If enacted, HB 679 will enforce stricter guidelines on the leasing and sale of immovable property that falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism. The change aims to ensure that the disposal of state property aligns closely with public interest, thereby enhancing accountability. By instituting legislative approval for certain transactions, the bill seeks to protect state assets and ensure that they are managed effectively and transparently.

Summary

House Bill 679, sponsored by Representative Nelson, modifies the powers granted to the secretary of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism regarding the sale and lease of immovable property. Specifically, the bill clarifies that the secretary can sell state-owned immovable property located within state parks, but such sales are subject to legislative approval. This is a significant change from prior regulations that allowed more autonomy in the leasing process without the need for legislative oversight.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 679 appears to largely support the increased oversight and accountability regarding the leasing and sale of state land, especially in the context of public parks. Proponents argue that legislative approval can prevent misuse of state property and ensure that public interests are prioritized. However, some detractors may view this reach for legislative oversight as a potential hindrance to efficient administration and decision-making pertaining to property management.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns over the potential slowdown of necessary actions regarding property sales and leases due to legislative processes. Stakeholders involved in tourism and recreation may worry that requiring legislative approval can delay projects that would enhance state parks and attract visitors. The balance between necessary oversight and administrative efficiency will be crucial as discussions around the bill move forward.