Louisiana House Bill HR20

Louisiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/24/22
• Refer: 3/28/22
• Report Pass: 4/12/22
• Passed: 4/25/22

Caption

Provides for procedures and requirements applicable to conference committee reports

Impact

The resolution's implementation is likely to enhance the efficiency of legislative operations by formalizing the process for the consideration of conference committee reports. The new rule mandates that reports be prioritized on the legislative calendar without disrupting pending business, thereby fostering an environment where critical decisions can be made swiftly. This can improve the legislative workflow, ensuring that reconciling measures between chambers does not become unduly delayed.

Summary

House Resolution 20 (HR20), adopted by the Louisiana House of Representatives, focuses on modifying the legislative procedures regarding the handling of conference committee reports. Specifically, HR20 introduces new Rule 8.23, which establishes clear guidelines on how such reports should be received, considered, and documented by the House. This amendment aims to streamline the legislative process by ensuring timely consideration of reports from conference committees, which are vital for reconciling differing versions of legislation passed by the House and Senate.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR20 appears to be largely positive, with a unanimous vote of 92-0 indicating strong bipartisan support for the proposed changes. Policymakers generally view these procedural enhancements as beneficial to the legislative process, promoting a more organized and responsive governmental operation. This unified stance suggests a collective recognition of the need for improved communication and efficiency within legislative practices.

Contention

Though there may not have been significant opposition to HR20, the process of revising legislative rules may occasionally lead to contention among various factions within the legislature, particularly regarding the balance of power between the House and Senate. However, the lack of dissenting votes on HR20 indicates that the resolution was accepted with minimal debate or controversy, reflecting a broad consensus on the necessity of procedural reforms. The repeal of Rule 8.21, which HR20 replaces, removes outdated guidelines, further suggesting a desire for modernization in legislative practices.