Louisiana Senate Bill SB75

Louisiana 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/24/21
• Refer: 3/24/21
• Refer: 4/12/21
• Report Pass: 4/19/21
• Engrossed: 4/27/21
• Refer: 4/28/21
• Report Pass: 5/17/21
• Enrolled: 6/1/21
• Chaptered: 6/4/21
• Passed: 6/4/21

Caption

Provides an exception for late approval of a capital outlay request for a state-owned and administered project submitted by a budget unit of the state, including public postsecondary education institutions. (gov sig) (2/3 - CA7s11(C)) (EG GF EX See Note)

Impact

If enacted, SB75 would influence state law by providing greater flexibility in the approval of funding requests for important educational projects. This legislative change is significant for public institutions, as it alleviates the rigid timeline previously imposed on budget requests, allowing these institutions to seek necessary funding for projects that may arise later in the budget process without the risk of exclusion. By facilitating this process, the bill aims to enhance the overall fiscal responsibility and responsiveness of state-funded educational initiatives.

Summary

Senate Bill 75 was introduced to modify the process by which capital outlay requests are submitted by budget units of the state, particularly focusing on public postsecondary education institutions. The bill allows for capital outlay requests that are submitted after the established November 1st deadline to be included within the capital outlay act under certain conditions. Specifically, it pertains to state-owned and administered projects, reflecting a push to streamline capital funding processes for education institutions, thereby ensuring they have the opportunity to receive necessary funding even if they miss the preliminary deadline.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB75 appears to be largely positive, particularly among supporters who advocate for educational funding and seek to ensure that public postsecondary institutions receive adequate resources. The support in the legislature is reflected in the unanimous vote of 102-0 in favor of the bill during its passage through the House. Stakeholders in education often view such legislative moves as crucial steps toward better funding practices that can enhance educational infrastructure and services.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB75 primarily revolved around the implications of allowing late submissions for capital outlay requests. While supporters argue that it provides necessary flexibility and responsiveness to the funding needs of educational institutions, critics may raise concerns regarding the potential for unorganized budget practices or challenges in oversight. However, the bill ultimately received widespread support, indicating alignment among legislators on the need for a more adaptable capital outlay framework for state projects.