Requests the LMA to study the payment of expenses incurred in the disposition of deceased paupers by the coroners in certain parishes and municipalities
Impact
The study requested by HR203 could significantly inform state laws regarding the financial obligations of municipalities related to coroner services. If the LMA offers recommendations based on the study, it may highlight the need for legislative changes that provide additional funding or support for smaller municipalities, which currently struggle with these expenses. This could lead to a potential re-evaluation of how coroner services are funded across parishes in Louisiana, aiming to ensure that deceased paupers' remains are handled with dignity and respect without imposing an undue burden on local governments.
Summary
House Resolution 203 (HR203) requests the Louisiana Municipal Association (LMA) to study the payment of expenses incurred in the disposition of deceased paupers by coroners in specific parishes and municipalities. This resolution arises from the understanding that some small municipalities face challenges in fulfilling their obligations regarding coroner's services due to inadequate funding. The LMA, which advocates for over three hundred municipalities and two parishes in Louisiana, is tasked with this study to better equip local governments in managing these fiscal responsibilities.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HR203 appears to be supportive, with recognition of the financial hardships that small municipalities experience in managing coroner expenses. The resolution is seen as a proactive step towards addressing these issues and enhancing the ability of local governments to serve their communities effectively. Stakeholders, including municipal officials and community advocates, are likely in favor of such initiatives that seek to improve fiscal management and support local governance.
Contention
While HR203 seems to promote a positive approach towards local government funding, potential points of contention may arise regarding the outcomes of the study. Discussions may include disagreements over proposed funding mechanisms, the role of state versus local governments in contributing to coroner expenses, and how best to balance fiscal responsibility with the need to provide humane treatment of deceased individuals. The results of the study could provoke further debate on these topics within the legislative framework.
Requests that payment for lodging, meals, or incidental expenses for state public officials and employees not exceed the amounts for such expenses established by the United States General Services Administration
Requests the Dept. of Insurance to study the insurance industry and information used in determining the premiums of insureds who live in the coastal parishes
Requests the Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness to study the process for entering emergency requests in the WebEOC during declared emergencies
Urges and requests a study of occupational license taxes imposed by parishes and municipalities in order to determine if it is an effective means of funding local governments