Louisiana Senate Bill SB347

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10

Caption

Constitutional amendment to exempt state colleges and universities from the requirement that new fees or increase in existing fees be enacted by a two-thirds vote of the elected members of each house of the legislature. (CA13s1(A))

Impact

If enacted, SB347 would directly impact how state colleges and universities manage their financial strategies, potentially allowing them greater flexibility in setting tuition and other fees without facing the legislative hurdles traditionally required. Proponents believe that this bill would enable quicker responses to fiscal needs and market conditions, which could enhance the institutions' ability to fund programs and maintain competitiveness in attracting students. It is anticipated that the amendment could lead to a more responsive financial environment for public higher education in Louisiana.

Summary

Senate Bill 347 is a proposed constitutional amendment that seeks to exempt state colleges and universities from the requirement of obtaining a two-thirds legislative vote for the enactment of new fees or increases in existing fees. Currently, Article VII, Section 2.1 of the Louisiana Constitution mandates that any new fee or civil fine imposed by state entities must receive significant legislative approval. The intention of SB347 is to streamline the process by which state colleges and universities can adjust their fees, which proponents argue is necessary for effective governance and financial management within these institutions.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SB347 appears to be supportive among those who advocate for higher education's autonomy, arguing that it would empower educational institutions to make timely financial decisions without excessive bureaucratic delays. However, there are concerns voiced by some stakeholders who fear that removing the two-thirds legislative vote requirement may lead to unchecked fee increases, which could ultimately burden students and families. The discussion reflects a broader debate about the balance between institutional autonomy and legislative oversight in the context of public funding.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB347 center on the potential consequences for students and their families. Critics argue that the lack of legislative oversight could result in arbitrary fee hikes, making higher education less accessible for low- and middle-income students. They emphasize the need for transparency and accountability in the governance of state colleges and universities, suggesting that maintaining legislative oversight is crucial to safeguard against inflationary pressures on tuition and fees. The proposed amendment thus fuels a discussion about autonomy versus accountability in the educational landscape.