Louisiana House Bill HB852

Louisiana 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/31/20
• Refer: 5/4/20

Caption

Provides relative to the duties of the Greater New Orleans Expressway Commission police

Impact

The removal of the policing requirement could alter the dynamics of law enforcement within the jurisdiction of the Greater New Orleans Expressway Commission. By not requiring officers to police the Huey P. Long Bridge, the bill raises questions about where responsibility will shift and how traffic management will be addressed in the absence of direct oversight from the commission. It may streamline operational focus on other duties or facilitate a reallocation of public safety resources.

Summary

House Bill 852, introduced by Representative Wright, seeks to amend the responsibilities of the Greater New Orleans Expressway Commission concerning law enforcement on the Huey P. Long Bridge. Specifically, the bill eliminates the requirement for the commission's officers to enforce police duties on the bridge, which is a significant infrastructure link in the region. This legislative change represents a shift in how public safety responsibilities are determined and allocated in the state, particularly concerning certain key infrastructure.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 852 appears neutral to slightly favorable among those who support the reallocation of duties and focus on enhanced traffic management strategies without the burden of policing. However, there may be concerns from local residents and traffic safety advocates who believe that diminishing police presence could affect safety on the bridge, leading to a mixed reception regarding the bill's implications on public safety in the area.

Contention

Notable points of contention stem from the potential implications for public safety and enforcement on the Huey P. Long Bridge. Critics may argue that removing the policing duty could lead to increased risks for motorists and pedestrians, prompting debates about the adequacy of existing law enforcement resources. Supporters of the bill likely argue that it allows for better use of resources, enabling the commission to focus on other pressing needs without the dual burden of policing duties.