Louisiana House Bill HB749

Louisiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/4/22
• Refer: 3/4/22
• Refer: 3/14/22
• Report Pass: 4/6/22
• Engrossed: 4/20/22
• Refer: 4/21/22
• Report Pass: 4/26/22
• Enrolled: 5/4/22
• Chaptered: 5/13/22
• Passed: 5/13/22

Caption

Transfers litter abatement responsibilities and programs from the Department of Education to the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism

Impact

The bill establishes a Louisiana Litter Abatement Grant Program, which allows local entities to apply for funding to support litter management initiatives. These grants will be awarded on a competitive basis and will require local governments or nonprofits to provide a 15% matching fund. The bill also empowers the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism to accept various forms of funding, thereby increasing available resources for litter abatement and community education efforts. This approach is anticipated to raise awareness and foster public participation in cleanliness campaigns.

Summary

House Bill 749 aims to streamline the management of litter abatement responsibilities in Louisiana by transferring these duties from the Department of Education to the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism. This shift is intended to enhance the effectiveness of state efforts to combat litter through improved program administration and community involvement. The legislation not only consolidates the state’s litter management under a single department but also introduces a grant program to support local governments and nonprofit organizations in their efforts to control and reduce litter in their communities.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 749 appears to be favorable, particularly among supporters of environmental initiatives and community cleanliness. Proponents articulate that consolidating litter management under one department will streamline efforts, leading to more effective results in reducing litter in public spaces. However, there might be concerns regarding the potential for reduced visibility for litter management initiatives that were part of the educational mandate previously handled by the Department of Education.

Contention

While most discussions surrounding HB 749 have been positive, there are notable concerns regarding the effectiveness of moving litter management out of educational contexts. Critics argue that educational initiatives are essential for fostering long-term community involvement in litter abatement. They fear that without a strong educational foundation, efforts to address litter may lack sustainability. In contrast, supporters believe that focusing litter initiatives under a tourism and recreation domain is key for engaging both local governments and community organizations effectively.