Louisiana House Bill HB1213

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/9/12
• Engrossed: 5/17/12
• Refer: 5/21/12
• Report Pass: 5/29/12
• Enrolled: 6/3/12
• Chaptered: 6/14/12
• Passed: 6/14/12

Caption

Provides with respect to the purchase of alternative fuel vehicles for the state fleet (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

Impact

This legislation is poised to significantly influence state laws governing vehicle procurement procedures by establishing specific requirements for the types of vehicles that can be purchased or leased by state agencies. It allows funding mechanisms, including the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Revolving Loan Fund, to facilitate the transition to alternative fuel vehicles. As a result, state operations may become more environmentally friendly, potentially lowering operational costs in the long run due to expected savings on fuel and maintenance.

Summary

House Bill 1213 aims to amend existing provisions related to the purchase and lease of vehicles by state agencies, emphasizing the use of alternative fuel and hybrid vehicles. The bill mandates that state agencies acquire vehicles equipped for alternative fuels, thereby promoting cleaner alternatives that align with federal Clean Air Act standards. This initiative reflects a larger goal of reducing harmful emissions such as nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, and particulates from state vehicles, improving air quality throughout Louisiana.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HB 1213 appears to be positive among proponents who view it as a proactive measure for environmental protection and public health. Supporters argue that adopting alternative fuel vehicles can play a crucial role in combating climate change and improving public health outcomes in the state. However, it is also evident that some logistical concerns were raised during discussions, particularly about the feasibility of implementing widespread changes in vehicle fleets where refueling infrastructure may currently be lacking.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the practical implications of the bill's mandates. Critics of the bill have raised concerns about the potential financial burden on state agencies and the readiness of existing workforce capabilities to manage a shift to alternative fueling systems. Additionally, there are questions regarding whether sufficient refueling infrastructure would be available to support a growing fleet of alternative fuel vehicles, particularly in rural areas. These discussions highlight the challenge of balancing ambitious environmental goals with practical execution obstacles.