Directs DOTD to construct toll booths at entrances and exits on state highways to Indian casinos.
Impact
The resolution aims to generate much-needed funds through the imposition of tolls on thousands of patrons visiting Indian casinos every day. By establishing toll booths, SCR17 seeks to alleviate some of the financial pressures on the Transportation Trust Fund, which primarily finances state highways. The potential influx of revenue from these tolls is seen as an innovative approach to addressing the current inadequacies in highway funding, particularly amidst rising costs and inflation that affect infrastructure maintenance and development.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 17 (SCR17) directs the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) to construct toll booths at all entrances and exits on state highways leading to casinos operated on Indian lands within the state. This legislative measure was motivated by the need for additional revenue sources to maintain and improve Louisiana's highway system, which is currently facing significant financial challenges. The existing gasoline and special fuels taxes have not been increased since 1984, leading to insufficient funds to address the state's estimated $12 billion backlog in highway needs.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding SCR17 appears to be cautiously optimistic. Supporters believe that creating a revenue stream from tolls is essential to manage the deteriorating condition of the state’s highway system. There seems to be a recognition of the necessity of alternative funding measures in light of stagnant tax rates. However, there may also be concerns regarding the practicality and fairness of tolling highways that are traditionally free to motorists, especially those who may not benefit directly from casino revenues.
Contention
While SCR17 does not explicitly detail any contentious issues or opposition, the introduction of tolls on state highways does raise questions about the equity of imposing additional costs on highway users. Potential criticisms could stem from those who feel that casino patrons should not bear the financial burden for highway maintenance, particularly when casinos already contribute through various taxes. The discussion surrounding SCR17 highlights a broader debate about funding priorities for transportation versus gaming interests in the state.
Directs DOTD to reduce the speed limit on LA Highway 21 east of its intersection with LA Highway 40 at the Fifth Ward Junior High School and its intersection with LA Highway 41 in St. Tammany Parish.
Requests DOTD study the feasibility and costs to provide adequate lighting and needed maintenance on bridges on the state highway system over the Mississippi River.
Requests DOTD to designate the area along La. Highway 485 near St. Anne's Church as the Adai Indian Community in Natchitoches Parish and to erect appropriate signs to denote the area as the Adai Indian Community.
Requests DOTD to take action to provide greater safety to the motoring public at the intersection of Thomas Road and Scenic Highway and the I-10 west entry ramp at Exit 157B on Acadian Thruway, both in East Baton Rouge Parish.