Louisiana Senate Bill SB149

Louisiana 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/1/21
• Refer: 4/1/21
• Refer: 4/12/21
• Report Pass: 4/14/21
• Refer: 4/19/21
• Report Pass: 4/26/21
• Engrossed: 4/29/21
• Refer: 5/3/21
• Refer: 5/18/21
• Refer: 5/19/21
• Report Pass: 5/24/21
• Enrolled: 6/7/21
• Chaptered: 6/28/21
• Passed: 6/28/21

Caption

Provides for a special election for submission of proposed constitutional amendments to the electors. (gov sig) (EN +$2,000,000 GF EX See Note)

Impact

The enactment of SB149 would formalize the procedure for submitting constitutional amendments to Louisiana's electorate, ensuring that any proposed changes discussed and approved through legislative processes in 2021 are presented to voters in a timely manner. This bill punctuates the link between legislative action and electoral engagement, reinforcing the democratic process in the state. However, it also emphasizes the need for coordination and timely actions from various government offices to ensure the smooth execution of the election.

Summary

Senate Bill 149, introduced in the Louisiana Legislature, establishes a special statewide election scheduled for the second Saturday in October 2021. This election aims to allow voters to decide on proposed constitutional amendments that will have been presented through Joint Resolutions during the 2021 Regular Session. The bill underscores the importance of public participation in shaping constitutional changes and reflects the legislative intent to finalize the election process for these amendments as a cohesive event.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB149 is largely positive among legislators who advocate for voter engagement and the democratization of constitutional change. The ease of educating the electorate on the proposed amendments is seen as a primary benefit. Nonetheless, there may be underlying concerns related to the costs associated with holding a special election and the logistical challenges that could arise in executing such an event within the established timeline.

Contention

While the text of the bill outlines a clear procedural framework for the election, contention may arise regarding the timing and associated costs of the special election. Critics may question whether the benefits of holding a special election outweigh potential financial implications, estimated in the bill summary to be around $2,000,000. Additionally, if no joint resolutions are approved for amendment submissions, the bill itself would become void, which could lead to further debate about legislative efficiency and responsiveness to voter issues.