Louisiana House Bill HB93

Louisiana 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/9/21
• Refer: 3/9/21
• Refer: 4/12/21
• Report Pass: 4/26/21
• Engrossed: 5/3/21
• Refer: 5/4/21
• Report Pass: 6/2/21
• Enrolled: 6/8/21
• Chaptered: 6/22/21
• Passed: 6/22/21

Caption

Exempts the Iberia Parish Airport Authority from the public lease law applicable to certain properties

Impact

The passage of HB 93 could significantly alter the operational framework of airport leasing in Iberia Parish. By providing this exemption, the Iberia Parish Airport Authority is afforded greater flexibility and autonomy in its dealings, which could facilitate economic development projects or attract tenants who can utilize the airport’s facilities. This shift may also streamline leasing processes that might otherwise be hampered by broader public lease laws, aligning more closely with the needs of local businesses and patrons.

Summary

House Bill 93 seeks to exempt the Iberia Parish Airport Authority from public lease laws concerning certain airport properties. This legislation empowers the authority to lease land and facilities at the LeMaire Airport in Jeanerette, Louisiana, without adhering to standard public lease requirements. However, it mandates that the authority must charge a fair and reasonable price for these leases, determined through market value comparisons and appraisals in line with Federal Aviation Administration guidelines.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 93 appears to be generally positive, particularly among local stakeholders who support the empowerment of the airport authority to manage its own leasing arrangements. Proponents argue that this legislation will provide necessary operational flexibility and stimulate local economic growth by enabling the airport authority to attract investments and efficiently manage property usage.

Contention

Despite the positive sentiment, there may be underlying concerns related to transparency and equitable leasing practices. Critics of such exemptions typically worry that bypassing public lease laws could lead to potential favoritism in leasing decisions or unfavorable terms for the public. Ensuring that appraisals and fair evaluations are conducted transparently will be critical to maintaining public trust and accountability in the airport authority's operations.