Provides relative to tax sale title (EN -$33,075 SD EX See Note)
Impact
The enactment of HB 157 has several implications for state laws regarding property rights and tax sales. By protecting interests related to coastal and flood protection projects, the legislation strengthens the ability of state and local agencies to maintain vital infrastructure without the risk of losing title due to tax delinquency. This is particularly significant for Louisiana, which faces unique challenges regarding coastal erosion and flooding. The bill is designed to uphold the integrity of these essential projects, thereby contributing to the state's long-term environmental stability and safety.
Summary
House Bill 157 addresses tax sale titles by enacting provisions that enhance property rights in the context of integrated coastal protection and related projects. Specifically, the bill amends Louisiana's Revised Statutes to include integrated coastal protection and levee or drainage projects as interests that cannot be terminated when affecting immovable property. This aims to ensure that critical infrastructure projects and environmental protections maintained at the state and local levels remain secured against disruption due to tax sales.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment regarding HB 157 appears to be positive among lawmakers, as evidenced by the unanimous support it received during the voting process, with 36 yeas and no nays in the final passage. This reflects a general consensus on the necessity of safeguarding local and state infrastructure projects against the complexities of tax sales. Supporters highlight the bill's role in promoting public safety and environmental protection as essential reasons for its backing.
Contention
While there appears to be broad support for the bill, notable points of contention focus on the balance between robust property rights and the implications for tax collection processes. Opponents of similar legislative measures in the past have raised concerns about the potential for diminishing tax revenues or complicating recovery efforts for unpaid taxes. However, the specific focus of HB 157 on coastal and drainage projects tends to limit broader disputes, as the legislation's goals align closely with the urgent needs of environmental management and infrastructure maintenance in Louisiana.
Transfers the responsibilities of the Atchafalaya Basin Research and Promotion Board and the Atchafalaya Basin Program from within the Department of Natural Resources to the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority. (7/1/18) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD EX See Note)