Louisiana House Bill HB865

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/14
• Refer: 3/10/14

Caption

Provides for content, review, approval, and monitoring of certain cooperative endeavor agreements and contracts (OR NO IMPACT See Note)

Impact

The impact of HB 865 is primarily focused on increasing accountability and transparency in the handling of public funds allocated through cooperative endeavor agreements. By implementing strict guidelines requiring detailed plans and compliance monitoring, the bill aims to prevent misuse of funds and ensure that specific goals are met effectively. Additionally, any noncompliance could result in the demand for unspent funds to be returned to the state, further reinforcing fiscal responsibility among governmental bodies.

Summary

House Bill 865 aims to enhance the oversight and approval process for cooperative endeavor agreements involving the expenditure of public funds by governmental bodies in Louisiana. The bill mandates that such agreements must be submitted to the Office of Contractual Review for evaluation and approval at least 45 days prior to their effective dates. This measure seeks to ensure all agreements adhere to a set of established guidelines and that adequate monitoring mechanisms are in place, including the submission of detailed budgets and progress reports on the utilization of funds.

Sentiment

General sentiment regarding HB 865 appears to be cautiously favorable. Proponents argue that the increased oversight will lead to better management of taxpayer funds and more effective project outcomes. However, there may be concerns from some governmental entities regarding the additional bureaucratic processes and potential delays in accessing funds for necessary programs and projects. Thus, while the intent behind the bill is widely supported, its implementation may raise discussions about balancing oversight with operational efficiency.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 865 include the implications of stricter oversight on local governance and the potential burden placed on governmental bodies in fulfilling reporting requirements. Stakeholders may express concerns that this could lead to delays in project implementation and funding disbursement, particularly for small agencies or entities that may lack the resources to navigate the new requirements efficiently. The bill emphasizes accountability but raises questions about the balance between oversight and accessibility in the expenditure of public funds.