Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

Louisiana Senate Bill SB434

Introduced
3/10/14  
Refer
3/10/14  

Caption

Provides for automobile expense allowance for certain clerks of court. (8/1/14)

Impact

The introduction of SB 434 would align the provisions for automobile expense allowances across various parishes, enhancing compensation for clerks of court tasked with fulfilling their responsibilities in regions with potentially higher travel demands. It retains the requirement for clerks to hold adequate automobile insurance, ensuring that public officials maintain a level of accountability and responsibility related to operating vehicles for work purposes. Importantly, funding for this allowance is sourced from surplus funds within the clerks' offices, which means no new state funding will be required.

Summary

Senate Bill 434, introduced by Senator LaFleur, amends Louisiana Revised Statutes to provide an automobile expense allowance for clerks of court in Allen and St. Bernard parishes. Previously, this allowance was only available to clerks in certain other parishes, establishing parity among clerks across regions. The allowance is set at fifteen percent of the clerk's annual salary, provided that specific insurance coverage is maintained. This measure aims to facilitate the work of clerks by offsetting travel costs associated with their official duties, offering financial support without imposing additional fiscal burdens on state or local authorities.

Sentiment

Overall, sentiment surrounding SB 434 appears to be supportive, particularly among those directly impacted, such as the clerks of court and their regional representatives. The bill is seen as a necessary adaptation to modernize clerks' compensation frameworks and promote equity across jurisdictions. However, there may be some skepticism regarding how surplus funds will be managed and whether it could impact operational budgets adversely in other areas. Legislative discussions suggest a recognition of the need for procedural changes to better support clerks in their roles.

Contention

While the bill is tentatively well-received, ongoing concerns about state budget implications and resource allocation remain. Some legislators may argue that even small allowances can accumulate to significant costs across multiple regions, drawing scrutiny about fiscal responsibility. The key point of discussion will likely focus on ensuring that clerk duties are adequately funded while maintaining transparency and accountability in the utilization of surplus funds.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA SB67

Provides for automobile expense allowance for the clerk of court of Allen Parish. (8/1/14)

LA SB38

Includes the clerk of each district court to receive an automobile expense allowance. (8/1/14) (EN +$724,000 LF EX See Note)

LA HB23

Provides for an automobile allowance for the clerk of court of certain parishes (EN +$194,900 LF EX See Note)

LA SB324

Provides an automobile expense allowance for the Vermilion Parish clerks of court in the parishes of Cameron, East Feliciana, Franklin, St. Charles, Vermilion, West Baton Rouge, and West Feliciana. (8/1/12) (EN +$135,000 LF EX See Note)

LA HB103

Authorizes an automobile expense allowance for the East Feliciana, West Feliciana, and St. Landry Parish clerk of court (EN +$57,000 LF EX See Note)

LA SB260

Provides for an automobile allowance for the clerk of the district court in St. Tammany Parish, Tangipahoa Parish, and Washington Parish. (8/15/10)

LA HB597

Authorizes an automobile expense allowance for the clerks of court of St. Charles Parish, Franklin Parish, and West Baton Rouge Parish (EG +$57,000 LF EX See Note)

LA SB8

Authorizes the clerk of the district court in Red River Parish to receive an automobile expense allowance. (8/15/10)

LA SB500

Provides relative to group insurance expenses for certain clerks of court. (8/1/18)

LA SB282

Provides relative to group insurance expenses for certain clerks of court. (8/1/20)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.