Louisiana House Bill HCR78

Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/9/11
• Engrossed: 5/9/11
• Report Pass: 6/6/11
• Passed: 6/9/11

Caption

Urges and requests the Board of Regents to study alternative uses of underutilized facilities at public postsecondary education institutions

Impact

The bill has the potential to impact state laws related to the operation and utilization of public postsecondary institutions. It emphasizes the importance of identifying and utilizing underutilized spaces not only for educational purposes but also for community and economic development. The findings from the Board of Regents' study may lead to new legislative recommendations on how these facilities could better serve public interests, thereby addressing both financial and resource allocation efficiency within the Department of Education.

Summary

HCR78 urges and requests the Board of Regents to study alternative uses for underutilized facilities at public postsecondary education institutions in Louisiana. It recognizes the current trend of declining enrollment while existing facilities have the capacity to accommodate thousands more students than currently enrolled. By exploring alternative uses of these facilities, the bill aims not just to maximize state resources but also to contribute to economic development and provide essential services to the community.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR78 appears to be largely positive, as it seeks to maximize the use of state resources while addressing the growing challenges faced by public postsecondary institutions. Many stakeholders, including educational leaders and community organizations, view the exploration of alternative uses as a pragmatic approach to enhance the financial sustainability of education facilities, thus supporting the mission of higher education while serving community needs.

Contention

While there is a general agreement on the need to address the issue of underutilized postsecondary facilities, some concerns may arise regarding the potential impact on educational quality and mission. Ensuring that any alternative uses do not interfere with the primary objective of these institutions—providing quality education to students—is paramount. Overall, discussions may reveal different perspectives on how to balance economic initiatives with educational responsibilities.