Louisiana House Bill HR45

Louisiana 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/18/20
• Refer: 5/18/20
• Report Pass: 5/20/20
• Passed: 6/1/20

Caption

Directs state agencies and licensing boards to suspend the imposition of sanctions against licensees and permittees for a violation of COVID-19 executive orders

Impact

By suspending adverse sanctions, HR45 aims to provide immediate relief to businesses struggling under the weight of pandemic-related restrictions. The resolution implicitly recognizes that strict enforcement of rules concerning licensees and permittees could further hinder economic recovery, which is vital for the state of Louisiana that has experienced significant job loss and economic downturn due to the pandemic. This action is intended to foster an environment where businesses can focus on recovery and re-engagement with their communities without the threat of penalties for their past compliance failures during unprecedented times.

Summary

House Resolution 45 (HR45) is a legislative measure designed to alleviate burdens on Louisiana businesses adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The resolution specifically authorizes and directs state agencies and licensing boards to suspend the imposition of sanctions against licensees or permittees engaged in public business for any violations related to stay-at-home orders or social distancing policies mandated by emergency disaster declarations. This initiative reflects an acknowledgment of the unique challenges posed by the pandemic on various sectors of the economy.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HR45 appears to be moderately positive among legislators and business owners who view it as a necessary step toward economic recovery. Proponents of the bill highlight the importance of supporting local enterprises in their efforts to rebound from the effects of COVID-19. However, there may also be underlying tensions regarding the enforcement of health and safety regulations, as critics of the pandemic response have raised concerns about ensuring public safety and the potential neglect of regulatory processes if sanctions are not enforced.

Contention

A notable point of contention regarding HR45 includes the balance between supporting economic revitalization and upholding public health standards. While the resolution aims to minimize the burdens on businesses, it raises questions about whether leniency towards sanctions might lead to compliance issues with existing health directives. Legislators may need to contend with the fine line between facilitating economic activity and ensuring the health of the public, as different communities across Louisiana present varying vulnerabilities to COVID-19.