Provides for the state to contract with a private entity to develop and implement a safety plan to reduce the reportable incident rate of state employees, including accountability for accomplishing such goals. (8/15/10) (OR NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)
Impact
If enacted, SB 551 will specifically alter how state departments manage workers' compensation by introducing accountability measures for department heads, requiring them to innovate and monitor safety practices actively. By engaging a third-party safety consultant, the state will implement a standardized approach to assess and improve worker safety programs, aiming to reduce the reportable incident rates. The successful deployment of this safety plan could drastically lower compensation claims and cultivate a safer work environment across departments, thereby enhancing overall public service efficiency.
Summary
Senate Bill 551, also known as the State Workers' Safety and Accountability Act, aims to address the rising costs and incidences of worker injuries among state employees in Louisiana. The bill mandates the state to contract with a private entity to develop a comprehensive worker safety plan. This initiative is influenced by legislative findings that identify a significant percentage of employees facing injuries, leading to soaring workers' compensation costs that exceeded fifty million dollars in a single fiscal year. The bill underscores the state's obligation to ensure the safety of its workforce while promoting accountability among departmental heads regarding workplace safety standards.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB 551 is generally positive, as many recognize the necessity of addressing worker safety in state employment settings. Supporters believe that establishing a strong framework for safety and accountability will yield long-term benefits for both employees and the state budget. However, there are concerns about dependency on an external consultant, with some stakeholders voicing skepticism about whether outsourcing this responsibility can guarantee effective outcomes.
Contention
Despite broad support, the bill encounters contention regarding the reliance on private entities for safety management. Critics may argue that outsourcing such critical functions could complicate oversight and accountability, potentially diluting the state's direct control over worker safety initiatives. The ongoing debate centers on maintaining an effective balance between governmental oversight and the efficiency that third-party services claim to provide, while ensuring that the ultimate goal of enhancing employee safety is not compromised.
Directs the development of a plan to support state employees who are terminated due to implementation of budget-reduction measures in preparation for reentry to the private sector workforce. (EG NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)
Requires verification of legal work status of employees by private employers seeking to contract with state agencies. (8/15/11) (REF NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)
Provides for dispute resolution of public contracts with the office of facility planning and control of the division of administration. (8/15/10) (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Authorizes the State Mineral and Energy Board to lease state lands for the development or production of alternate energy resources. (8/15/10) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF RV See Note)
Provides for the development of a long term plan to create regional governmental service centers for the delivery of state services. (8/15/10) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Provides relative to requirements for private contracts with agencies or firms for the collection of local sales and use tax (EN NO IMPACT LF EX See Note)
Provides that the Louisiana Equal Pay for Women Act be applicable to men, private employers and requires government contractors to verify equal pay practices. (8/1/14) (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)