Creates a task force to study the effectiveness of technology and research parks and to make recommendations on its findings.
Impact
The establishment of this task force is expected to provide significant insights into the effectiveness of Louisiana's technology and research parks in fostering innovation and aiding business growth. By assessing which parks have succeeded and which have struggled, lawmakers may be better equipped to make informed decisions about potential legislative changes or additional support mechanisms. The inquiries undertaken by the task force aim to illuminate the broader economic contributions of these parks to the state, which could influence future state investment in technology initiatives.
Summary
Senate Resolution 202 creates a task force in Louisiana to study the effectiveness of technology and research parks across the state. This initiative arises from a need to evaluate how these parks, which were established to support technology-driven businesses and enhance economic development, have performed since their inception in the early 1980s. The task force will be charged with researching various aspects, including the number of businesses that have benefited from these parks, the funding they have received, and their ongoing operational status. A report detailing the findings and recommendations is expected by March 1, 2026.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SR202 appears to be generally supportive, at least among those in legislative positions who recognize the value of evaluating existing infrastructure for technology businesses. The commitment to gather comprehensive data reflects a proactive approach to driving economic growth through informed policymaking. However, enthusiasm may be tempered by concerns about the actual outcomes of the assessments and the implementation of proposed recommendations.
Contention
Notably, there may be contentions regarding the effectiveness and funding of these research parks. While the resolution intends to shine a light on their successes and failures, discussions about what constitutes success and how to measure it may arise. Additionally, challenges may emerge related to ensuring diverse participation within the task force itself and balancing the interests of various stakeholders involved in business and economic development in Louisiana.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to create a task force to study, identify, and make recommendations to address the specialist physician shortage in the state
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to continue the task force to study, identify, and make recommendations to address the shortage of specialist physicians in this state
Creates a task force to study and make recommendations relative to the "evidence based approaches" as required by the "Charter School Demonstration Programs Law".
Requests that the state Dept. of Education and public school governing authorities implement certain measures based on the La. Women's Policy and Research Commission's recommendations pertaining to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education in its 2013 report to the governor
Designates Thursday, May 5, 2016, as "NASA Day" at the state capitol and commends NASA and the Michoud Assembly Facility on the significant technical and scientific accomplishments made by them which have positively impacted the United States and the state of Louisiana.
Commends NASA on its significant accomplishments, both technical and scientific, and the Michoud Assembly Facility for its contributions to these advances which have positively impacted both the nation and the state of Louisiana.
Requests the Senate and House committees on agriculture, forestry, aquaculture, and rural development to meet and function as a joint committee to study and make recommendations regarding the appropriate level of support to further the missions, goals, and priorities of the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center and the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center.