Separates litter abatement responsibilities, grant program, and fund account from the environmental education section of the Department of Education, and places them with the Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Impact
The legislation's enactment is expected to impact various state laws regarding environmental education and litter control. By shifting the oversight of litter abatement and education from the Department of Education, it allows for a specialized focus on environmental issues through the Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism. This change will facilitate the establishment of more cohesive strategies for managing litter, improving public awareness, and funding community-based initiatives. Local governments and organizations may benefit from enhanced access to grant funding directed specifically at litter abatement programs, which can lead to cleaner, healthier communities.
Summary
House Bill 765 aims to streamline litter abatement responsibilities and environmental education initiatives in Louisiana. It proposes to transfer the functions related to litter reduction, education, and abatement grants from the Department of Education to the Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism. This move is part of a broader initiative to enhance the state's environmental management capabilities through dedicated programs and funding mechanisms while eliminating redundancies in government operations. The bill establishes separate accounts to ensure better management of funds related to environmental education and litter abatement efforts, allowing for targeted use and accountability.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 765 is mixed but generally leans towards positivity, especially among environmental advocates and local government officials who see the potential for increased funding and targeted administrative efforts as beneficial. Supporters argue that the bill will lead to more efficient and effective management of litter abatement programs, which aligns with broader environmental goals. However, there are concerns from some education advocates regarding the withdrawal of these functions from the education sector, fearing it may lessen the emphasis on integrating environmental education into school curriculums.
Contention
Some notable points of contention include the implications this bill may have on the role of education in fostering a culture of environmental awareness among youth. Opponents worry that moving litter education away from schools could diminish grassroots participation in anti-litter initiatives. The bill’s proponents counter that concentrating these efforts within a dedicated department will streamline operations and produce necessary results in litter management and environmental education. This legislative change reflects a critical reevaluation of how the state addresses litter and environmental health, prioritizing efficiency and specialized management over broad educational mandates.
Transfers the jurisdiction of the Mansfield Female College Museum from the Department of State to the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism. (gov sig) (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Authorizes DEQ to once again grant transferable credits for the investigation or remediation of hazardous waste "brownfields" sites on and after July 1, 2011 through December 31, 2013, clarifies that the credit may be granted to any public or private "entity" whether taxable or non-taxable, and specifically authorizes credits for the remediation of public parks, playgrounds and other recreational areas. (7/1/11) (EN DECREASE GF RV See Note)
Creates the Department of Housing, consolidates the Department of Natural Resources and Department of Environmental Quality. (gov sig) (OR SEE FISC NOTE SD EX)