Louisiana Senate Bill SB213

Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/25/11
• Refer: 4/25/11
• Report Pass: 5/23/11

Caption

Establishes the Louisiana Enhanced Governmental Access Portal within the division of administration and provides its functions and duties. (gov sig) (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

Impact

The impact of SB 213 on state laws pertains to the creation of a structured governmental access platform that would standardize how public information is managed and accessed. The legislation specifies that the portal shall execute various functions, including overseeing electronic transactions and ensuring compliance with public records laws. The introduction of a value-added charge for certain services aims to support the portal's operational costs without relying on state appropriations. This framework may encourage more effective governance by reducing administrative burden, although it could raise questions about accessibility and costs for the users of these public services.

Summary

Senate Bill 213 establishes the Louisiana Enhanced Governmental Access Portal within the division of administration. This initiative is designed to streamline the electronic access to public information and facilitate electronic transactions with government entities for residents and businesses. The bill outlines the functions and responsibilities of the chief information officer (CIO) and the commissioner of administration, emphasizing the promotion of e-commerce and providing essential services through a centralized platform. By doing so, it aims to enhance the interaction between citizens and government while promoting efficiency and accessibility.

Sentiment

Public sentiment regarding SB 213 appears to be generally supportive among those advocating for improved government access and transparency. Proponents argue that enhancing electronic interactions with government is a necessary modernization effort that benefits the public by fostering easy access to essential services. However, there might also be some concerns regarding the potential implications of outsourcing the management of such a critical system, especially regarding the safeguarding of public information and ensuring that services remain user-friendly and equitable.

Contention

Notable contention arises from the outsourcing aspect of the bill, where a private entity may manage the portal’s operations. While this could potentially bring specialized expertise and operational efficiency, stakeholders may worry about accountability and the handling of sensitive public data. Additionally, provisions excluding public records and certain education portals from the bill's regulations could spark discussions on the adequacy of protections and services afforded to different segments of the population. This creates a complex landscape where balancing operational efficiency with public accountability remains critical.