Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

Louisiana Senate Bill SB124

Introduced
3/10/14  
Introduced
3/10/14  
Refer
3/10/14  

Caption

Constitutional Amendment to authorize the postsecondary education management boards to establish tuition and mandatory fee amounts charged by institutions under their supervision and management. (2/3-CA13sl(A))

Impact

If passed, SB124 would notably alter the financial landscape for public postsecondary institutions in Louisiana. It would enable these institutions to implement changes in tuition and mandatory fees without delays associated with legislative processes. Proponents argue that this would enhance the efficiency and adaptability of funding mechanisms in higher education in the state, ultimately benefiting students and institutions alike by allowing for timely adjustments in response to economic changes.

Summary

Senate Bill 124 proposes a constitutional amendment to authorize postsecondary education management boards in Louisiana to establish tuition and mandatory fee amounts for the institutions under their supervision without the need for legislative approval. The amendment seeks to change current regulations that require a two-thirds vote from the legislature for any new fees or increases in existing fees. It aims to provide more autonomy to these management boards, potentially allowing for quicker decision-making regarding tuition rates and fees, which may help institutions adapt to changing financial conditions more responsively.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB124 appears divided. Supporters tout the benefits of granting postsecondary management boards the flexibility to set tuition rates, arguing it allows institutions to remain competitive and financially viable. Conversely, critics may raise concerns regarding accountability and transparency, fearing that removing the legislative check on these decisions could lead to unchecked increases in tuition and fees, thus potentially limiting access to higher education for students.

Contention

Key points of contention in the discussions around SB124 likely revolve around the balance of authority between legislative oversight and institutional autonomy. Supporters advocate for the necessity of empowering management boards to respond swiftly to fiscal needs, while opponents may highlight the potential risks of disenfranchisement of voters, as significant financial decisions would no longer require legislative scrutiny. The debate encapsulates broader themes of state governance, accountability in public institutions, and the future of educational funding in Louisiana.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA SB155

Constitutional amendment to authorize the postsecondary education management boards to establish tuition and fee amounts charged by institutions under their supervision and management. (2/3-CA13sl(A)) (RR INCREASE SG RV See Note)

LA SB343

Constitutional amendment to authorize the postsecondary education management boards to establish tuition and fee amounts charged by institutions under their supervision and management. (2/3-CA13sl(A)) (EG INCREASE SG RV See Note)

LA SB80

Constitutional amendment to authorize the postsecondary education management boards to establish tuition and fee amounts charged by institutions under their supervision and management. (2/3-CA13sl(A)) (EN INCREASE SG RV See Note)

LA HB275

Provides relative to the authority of public postsecondary education management boards to increase tuition and mandatory fee amounts

LA SB345

Constitutional amendment to exempt public postsecondary education tuition amounts and mandatory fees from requirements for imposing a new or increasing an existing tax or fee. (2/3-CA13s1(A))

LA HB1078

Provides relative to the authority of public postsecondary education management boards to increase tuition and mandatory fee amounts (OR +$257,600,000 SG RV See Note)

LA HB526

Authorizes the La. Community and Technical Colleges System Board of Supervisors to increase tuition and mandatory fee amounts at institutions under its supervision and management and permits the uniform imposition of tuition and mandatory fee amounts on a per credit hour basis (RE +$5,300,000 SG RV See Note)

LA HB194

Provides relative to the authority of public postsecondary education management boards to increase tuition and mandatory fee amounts (EG INCREASE SG RV See Note)

LA HB862

Authorizes, with limitations, public postsecondary education management boards to establish and increase student tuition and mandatory fees (EN INCREASE SG RV See Note)

LA SB385

Constitutional Amendment to provide relative to the authority and powers of the Board of Regents and the public postsecondary education management boards. (2/3 - CA13sl(A))

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.