Requests the federal Office of Management and Budget to maintain the current minimum population Standard for Delineating Metropolitan and Micropolitan Statistical Areas.
Impact
SCR33 highlights the negative implications of changing the metropolitan designation threshold, emphasizing that it could disrupt the flow of federal funding vital for localities struggling economically. Specifically, it could hamper programs designed to support infrastructure improvements and community revitalization efforts. Cities that rely heavily on federal support for housing renovations, alleviating lead hazards, and developing safe housing would directly suffer if their designations changed, leading to adverse economic impacts.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 33 (SCR33) urges the federal Office of Management and Budget to maintain the current population standards for delineating metropolitan and micropolitan statistical areas at a minimum of fifty thousand residents. The resolution responds to a recommendation that would raise this threshold to one hundred thousand, a change that would result in cities like Alexandria and Hammond, Louisiana losing their metropolitan designations. This loss would impact the availability of federal resources essential for community development and economic assistance, especially in the wake of the pandemic.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SCR33 appears to be predominantly supportive among legislators, reflecting a consensus on the importance of retaining the population threshold. The voting history indicates a strong bipartisan agreement, with the house vote recording 93 in favor and none against, suggesting that lawmakers recognize the necessity of these federal funds for local economies. Supporters argue that maintaining the existing standards is crucial for sustaining economic growth and fostering community resilience during recovery phases.
Contention
While the resolution enjoys broad support, some contention may arise from differing perspectives on federal regulations and funding formulas. A shift towards a higher population threshold could be viewed by some as an effort to streamline federal resource allocation; however, proponents of SCR33 argue that such a shift would overlook the unique needs of smaller communities. The discussions surrounding SCR33 reflect a deeper concern over maintaining equitable access to federal funding for underserved areas, underscoring the importance of inclusive economic policies.
To Encourage The United States Congress To Reevaluate The Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Locality Structure And Ensure Accurate Geographic Practice Cost Indices For The Metropolitan Statistical Areas Of This State.
Requests the Department of Natural Resources, office of coastal management, to review permitting cycle times and to make recommendations to expedite the permitting process.
Requests the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to maintain region-wide leasing in the Gulf of Mexico in the 2017-2022 Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program without any further exclusions or restrictions.
Requests that the Board of Regents study jointly with their respective management boards the possibility of revising the classification and admission standards of the University of New Orleans and Southern University at New Orleans.
Urging The President Of The United States To Issue A Presidential Directive Ordering Federal Agencies To Report Disaggregated Native Hawaiian And Pacific Islander Data In Compliance With The Office Of Management And Budget Statistical Policy Directive No. 15.