Constitutional Amendment to require a minimum turnout of 20% of voters to approve a political subdivision or special district proposition to incur or assume debt, issue bonds, or levy a tax. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (1/1/15) (OR SEE FISC NOTE LF RV See Note)
Impact
The impact of this bill on state laws is significant, as it changes the threshold for approval on important fiscal issues. By instituting a minimum turnout requirement, SB200 would potentially lead to fewer approvals of bond measures and tax levies, ensuring that decisions reflect broader community consent. The permanence of this amendment is set to take effect on January 1, 2015, upon voter approval at the statewide election scheduled for November 4, 2014.
Summary
Senate Bill 200 proposes a constitutional amendment requiring that any proposition to incur debt, issue bonds, or levy taxes by political subdivisions or special districts be approved by at least 20% of the registered voters in order to pass. This amendment aims to ensure that a minimum level of public engagement and agreement is necessary before significant financial decisions can be made by local governments. The bill is intended to safeguard against low-turnout votes deciding substantial fiscal actions that affect local jurisdictions.
Sentiment
The general sentiment around SB200 is mixed. Supporters argue that it enhances democratic participation by ensuring that a larger portion of the electorate is engaged in the decision-making process regarding fiscal matters. They see this as a positive step towards ensuring that significant financial propositions are not decided by a small number of voters. Conversely, opponents may express concern that this requirement could hinder local governments' ability to fund necessary projects, particularly in areas with historically low voter turnout.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SB200 include the necessity and practicality of the 20% turnout requirement. Critics of the bill may argue that such a high threshold could prevent essential infrastructure projects and services from being funded due to insufficient voter participation, thereby stalling local progress on critical community needs. This debate touches on broader themes of voter engagement and the balance of power between state authority and local agency.
Requires a minimum turnout of 20% of voters to approve a political subdivision proposition to incur or assume debt, issue bonds, or levy a tax. (See Act) (OR SEE FISC NOTE LF RV)
Constitutional amendment to authorize a parish governing authority to levy sales tax on motor fuels with the approval of the parish electors. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (OR INCREASE LF RV See Note)
Constitutional amendment to allow persons 65 years of age or older to receive the special assessment regardless of income. (1/1/11) (2/3-CA13s1(A)) (OR SEE FISC NOTE LF RV See Note)
Constitutional amendment to permit the donation of the use of public equipment and personnel to the state or a political subdivision. (2/3 - CA13s1) (EN SEE FISC NOTE See Note)
Constitutional Amendment to prohibit unfunded mandates on political subdivisions or public school systems, with limited exceptions. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Provides for a proposition election to determine whether sports wagering activities and operations will be permitted in a parish. (6/10/20) (EG SEE FISC NOTE SG EX See Note)