Requires reporting certain personnel information in budget request forms for institutions of higher education. (7/1/10) (EG NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)
Impact
If enacted, SB 286 will amend existing state laws to impose stricter requirements on how higher education institutions report their personnel and financial information. This change aims to create more consistent practices across institutions, thereby enabling better assessment and oversight by state authorities. This could lead to more efficient use of public funds and improved strategic planning at the institutional level. Additionally, by requiring comprehensive reporting, the bill may help identify trends in hiring, workforce management, and budget allocation across higher education entities.
Summary
Senate Bill 286, introduced by Senator Donahue, focuses on enhancing the financial accountability and transparency of institutions of higher education in Louisiana. The bill mandates that higher education agencies prepare and submit a detailed personnel table as part of their budget request forms. This table must include data on authorized positions, budgeted salary expenditures, and vacant positions, which are critical for understanding the staffing and financial health of these institutions. The intent behind this legislation is to standardize and improve the quality of budgetary reporting among state-funded higher education entities.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB 286 appears to be generally positive, particularly among legislators who prioritize accountability in public spending. Proponents argue that the enhanced reporting requirements will foster greater transparency and better decision-making in the allocation of resources within higher education. However, there may be some concerns raised by institutions regarding the administrative burden that extensive reporting could impose, especially on smaller colleges or universities that may lack the necessary resources to comply fully.
Contention
While the bill does not appear to have faced significant opposition, points of contention may revolve around the feasibility of implementing the required reporting protocols, especially how they align with existing processes at various institutions. Additionally, some opponents may argue that the emphasis on standardized reporting could overlook the unique needs of individual institutions, potentially stifling innovation in budget management practices. The effective date of July 1, 2010, highlights the urgency behind this legislative push for greater oversight.
Requires budget requests and the executive budget include information on unclassified employees and requires Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget approval of the creation of new unclassified positions. (7/1/10) (OR NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)
Requires the Board of Regents to submit a report to certain legislative committees regarding the formula adopted to fund institutions of post secondary education. (8/15/10)
Provides for the requirement of the division of administration to produce a non-discretionary adjusted standstill budget. (7/1/17) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)