Authorizes a renewable tax for the operation of the coroner's office for certain parishes
Impact
The implementation of HB 966 would directly affect funding mechanisms for coroners in a select group of parishes, namely areas that may have historically struggled with financial support for these essential services. By offering an alternative funding method through local taxation, the bill is intended to enhance the operational capabilities of coroners, which can lead to improved public health and safety outcomes. Furthermore, the success of this funding model could set a precedent for similar initiatives in other parishes facing similar fiscal challenges.
Summary
House Bill 966, introduced by Representative Carrier, establishes a framework for alternative funding sources for coroners in specific parishes of Louisiana. The bill allows elected coroners to propose a renewable ad valorem tax of up to three mills for a ten-year period, specifically aimed at funding the operations of the coroner's office. This tax, subject to approval by local voters, would relieve the parish from further financial obligations pertaining to the coroner's budget as long as the funds are used for legislatively mandated services. The bill focuses on improving financial autonomy for the coroner's offices in the identified parishes.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment around HB 966 appears to be positive, particularly among supporters who recognize the need for sustainable funding for local coroner offices. The provision of a renewable tax could be seen as a proactive approach to ensure that coroners have the necessary resources to perform their duties effectively. However, potential concerns from constituents may arise regarding the financial burden of additional taxation, indicating a nuanced response where the broader community may have mixed feelings about local tax initiatives.
Contention
Notably, the contention surrounding this bill may stem from discussions about local taxation and fiscal responsibility. While supporters advocate for the bill as a means to secure essential services, opponents may worry about the implications of introducing new taxes in economically strained areas. The necessity of garnering voter approval for the tax introduces an element of local governance and democratic process that could lead to heated debates over the appropriateness of taxing mechanisms within these communities.
Requires the assessor in certain parishes to pay the cost of certain insurance premiums for eligible retirees from the assessor's office (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)
Requires the East Feliciana Parish assessor to pay the cost of certain insurance premiums for certain retirees of the assessor's office (EN NO IMPACT LF EX See Note)
Authorizes the assessor in Caddo Parish to pay the cost of certain insurance premiums for eligible retirees from the assessor's office. (gov sig) (EN NO IMPACT LF EX See Note)
Requires the Evangeline Parish Tax Assessor to pay the cost of certain insurance premiums for eligible retirees from the assessor's office (EN NO IMPACT LF EX See Note)
Requires the St. James Parish assessor to pay the cost of certain insurance premiums for certain retirees of the assessor's office (EN NO IMPACT LF EX See Note)
Provides relative to the payment of certain insurance premium costs for certain retired assessors and assessors' employees in Caldwell and Lincoln parishes. (8/1/12) (EN +$10,000 LF EX See Note)
Expands eligibility for payment of certain insurance premium costs for retired assessor's and assessor's employees in the parishes of LaSalle, Rapides, Sabine, and Winn (OR +$12,360 LF EX See Note)
Increases the years of service requirement for the payment of certain insurance premiums for certain retirees of the Acadia Parish Assessor's Office (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)