(Constitutional Amendment) Limits adjustments to appropriations for health care and higher education to eliminate a projected deficit
Impact
If enacted, this legislation would fundamentally alter how the state manages its budget and funding allocation during deficit situations. It places explicit restrictions on the ability of state legislators to adjust funding levels for health care and education, making it mandatory to consider these sectors as priorities in any fiscal emergencies. The bill seeks to prevent any adjustments that exceed five percent of the total appropriations from dedicated funds, thus providing a safeguard for these critical services.
Summary
House Bill 1035 proposes a constitutional amendment in Louisiana aimed at protecting the funding for health care and higher education during budget adjustments to eliminate projected deficits. The bill specifically mandates that any adjustments to appropriations should not disproportionately affect these categories, thereby ensuring that essential services remain funded even in times of financial constraint. The proposed changes amend Article VII, Section 10 of the Louisiana Constitution.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 1035 is largely supportive among advocacy groups focused on education and public health. Proponents argue that this amendment is necessary to uphold the integrity and sufficiency of funding for these essential areas, especially in economically challenging times. Conversely, there are concerns raised by some legislators regarding its potential implications for state fiscal flexibility, fearing that it could restrict the government's ability to implement broader budget measures necessary for overall fiscal health.
Contention
Notable points of contention revolve around the balance between ensuring necessary funding for health care and education and maintaining the state's ability to adapt its budgetary policies in response to financial challenges. Critics argue that while the intentions behind the bill are commendable, it may inadvertently limit the state's capacity to respond effectively to fiscal crises. The bill also raises discussions about the interplay between mandatory funding obligations versus discretionary budget flexibility, and this debate is likely to be a significant part of the legislative discourse surrounding the proposed constitutional amendments.
Constitutional amendment to revise the circumstances that would allow the reduction of constitutionally protected expenditures and dedications to eliminate a projected deficit in an ensuing fiscal year. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD EX See Note)
Constitutional amendment to repeal certain constitutionally dedicated and protected allocations and funds. (2/3-CA13s1(A)) (OR INCREASE GF RV See Note)
Constitutional amendment to authorize limited redirection and transfer of funds supporting appropriations and allocations from the state general fund and dedicated funds in certain circumstances. (2/3 CA13s1(A)) (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Constitutional amendment to authorize limited redirection and transfer of funds supporting appropriations and allocations from the state general fund and dedicated funds in certain circumstances. (2/3 CA13s1(A)) (OR SEE FISC NOTE SD EX)
(Constitutional Amendment) Authorizes limited redirection and transfer of funds supporting allocations and appropriations from the state general fund and dedicated funds in certain circumstances (OR SEE FISC NOTE SD EX See Note)
Constitutional amendment to authorize limited redirection and transfer of funds supporting appropriations and allocations from the state general fund and dedicated funds in certain circumstances. (2/3 CA13s1(A)) (RE SEE FISC NOTE GF RV See Note)
Constitutional amendment to authorize limited redirection and transfer of funds supporting appropriations and allocations from the state general fund and dedicated funds in certain circumstances. (2/3-CA13s1(A))
(Constitutional Amendment) Limits the amount of State General Fund (Direct) revenues that may be appropriated in a fiscal year for recurring expenses and restricts use of such revenues above that limit (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)