Provides for designation of certain state highways. (8/1/21) (EN +$3,300 SG EX See Note)
Impact
The enactment of SB 37 will result in the formal recognition of these specific highway segments, thereby intertwining the names of the honorees with public infrastructure. The Department of Transportation and Development is tasked with producing and maintaining appropriate signage for these memorial highways, funded by local or private sources covering the costs associated with the signs. This approach ensures that the memorials are financially supported without burdening state resources, thus allowing the honor to be bestowed upon the individuals without significant financial implications for the state.
Summary
Senate Bill 37 aims to designate specific portions of Louisiana highways as memorial highways to honor fallen law enforcement officers and military personnel. The bill specifically proposes to name sections of Louisiana Highway 38 and United States Highway 51 in Tangipahoa and Washington Parishes after individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. These designations serve to commemorate their contributions and provide a lasting tribute to their service to the community.
Sentiment
Generally, the sentiment surrounding SB 37 appears to be positive, with broad support from both the community and legislators for recognizing the sacrifices made by these individuals. This type of legislation tends to foster a sense of civic pride and communal respect for public service members, contributing to a cultural recognition of their sacrifices within the public domain. The memorial designations resonated positively within the community context, aligning with public sentiments towards honoring local heroes.
Contention
While there do not appear to be significant points of contention surrounding SB 37, discussions may have centered on the criteria for memorial designations and whether there should be limitations on the number of such tributes. Questions could arise regarding the administrative processes and the sourcing of funds for signage, despite these being addressed in the bill. Overall, the bill reflects a desire to enhance community recognition while ensuring that procedures and funding mechanisms are responsibly managed.
Designates a portion of United States Highway 51 in Tangipahoa Parish as the "Deputy Ed Toefield Jr. Memorial Highway". (8/1/20) (OR +$1,100 SG EX See Note)
Designates a portion of Louisiana Highway 38 in Washington Parish as the "Lance Corporal Larry L. Wells Memorial Highway". (8/1/20) (OR +$1,100 SG EX See Note)
Designates a portion of Louisiana Highway 1064 in Tangipahoa Parish as the "Rev. Alfred L. Hart Memorial Highway". (8/1/24) (EN +$1,100 SG EX See Note)
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.