Decreases the amount required to recommit a legislative instrument with a significant fiscal cost.
Impact
If enacted, SR30 would lower the threshold for recommitting legislative instruments to the Committee on Finance from an estimated fiscal cost of $100,000 to an unspecified lower amount presented in the fiscal note. This alteration is expected to enhance the financial scrutiny of legislative proposals, allowing for a more effective examination of their fiscal impacts. As a result, legislators may have a more thorough understanding of the potential economic consequences associated with legislative actions, leading to more informed decision-making.
Summary
Senate Resolution 30 (SR30), proposed by Senator Michot, seeks to amend the Rules of Order of the Louisiana Senate, specifically Rule 13.5.1, which pertains to the dual referral of legislative instruments with significant fiscal costs. The primary objective of SR30 is to decrease the threshold fiscal cost amount that necessitates the recommitment of certain legislative instruments to the Committee on Finance. This change aims to streamline legislative procedures by ensuring that financial implications of bills are more rigorously reviewed before further consideration.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SR30 reflects a recognition of the importance of financial oversight in legislative processes. Supporters argue that the resolution is a vital step toward ensuring that fiscal responsibility remains a priority within the Senate. However, there are concerns about the potential for increased bureaucratic processes and the administrative burden it could impose on lawmakers. Thus, the sentiment is somewhat mixed, with recognition of need balanced by fears of inefficiency.
Contention
Notable points of contention regarding SR30 include discussions about the necessity of the proposed changes and their implications for the legislative workflow. Critics may raise concerns about whether the lowered threshold could create additional bureaucracy that hinders legislative progress or overwhelms the Committee on Finance with excessive reviews. Furthermore, there may be apprehensions regarding how this resolution affects the Senate’s efficiency in addressing legislative matters, especially during busy sessions.
Provides for recommittal of any instrument with a specified fiscal impact to the Committee on Appropriations and provides certain requirements for the General Appropriation Bill
Requires prefiling by January 15 of any legislative instrument which produces a net decrease in taxes, fees, charges or other revenues received by the state of $10 million or more annually in any one of the 5 fiscal years; a report by the proponents on the instrument's economic effects; and a review of such report by the legislative fiscal office.