Louisiana House Bill HCR164

Louisiana 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/28/13
• Engrossed: 5/28/13
• Refer: 5/29/13

Caption

Requests the House Committee on House and Governmental Affairs and the Senate Committee on Senate and Governmental Affairs to meet and function as a joint committee to study the organization of state government with a focus on abolishing or merging one or more departments in order to provide for creation of the Department of Elderly Affairs as provided in House Bill No. 352 of the 2013 R.S.

Impact

The resolution acknowledges that the current executive branch comprises twenty existing departments. It recognizes the constitutional parameters under which the functions and responsibilities of these departments must be organized. HCR164 implies that the establishment of the Department of Elderly Affairs could lead to potential efficiencies and cost savings within state government by consolidating services that cater to senior citizens. This department would be responsible for planning and coordinating services directed at individuals aged sixty or older.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 164 (HCR164) requests the establishment of a joint committee by the House and Senate Committees on Governmental Affairs to study the restructuring of the executive branch of Louisiana's state government. The main focus of this resolution is to examine the feasibility of merging or abolishing existing departments to facilitate the creation of a new Department of Elderly Affairs. This proposed department aims to better address the needs of Louisiana's growing elderly population and streamline services provided to them.

Sentiment

Overall, sentiment surrounding HCR164 appears moderately favorable, as it addresses a pressing need for focused attention on the aging population in Louisiana. Supporters suggest that creating a dedicated department could enhance the management and delivery of services to the elderly, which is a growing segment of the state's demographics. However, there may be concerns related to the implications of merging departments on existing services and employees involved in those functions.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the ramifications of merging or abolishing existing departments. By establishing the Department of Elderly Affairs, there may be fears of service disruption or job losses among current employees in affected departments. Moreover, discussions may also touch on the adequacy of resources and support for such a large demographic, as stakeholders might debate the best approaches for effectively serving the elderly without sacrificing the quality of existing services.