Louisiana Senate Bill SR65

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/15/14
• Refer: 4/16/14
• Report Pass: 4/29/14
• Passed: 4/30/14

Caption

Requests the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture and Rural Development to study increasing the per pupil amount spent on vocational agriculture, agribusiness, and agriscience programs in Louisiana.

Impact

The resolution points out that the current per-pupil funding of at least fifty dollars has not changed for over fifteen years. Given that agricultural revenues in Louisiana reached over eleven billion dollars last year, there is an evident need for investment in education that aligns with these economic activities. By advocating for an increase in funding, the resolution aims to ensure that educational materials and supplies adequately meet the demands of a growing agricultural sector, thereby potentially improving job readiness and skill development for students in these fields.

Summary

Senate Resolution 65 urges the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture and Rural Development to conduct a study on increasing the per-pupil funding for vocational agriculture, agribusiness, and agriscience programs in Louisiana. This resolution highlights the importance of vocational education in supporting the agricultural sector, which is a significant contributor to Louisiana's economy. Legislative backing aims to enhance educational resources available for students involved in these essential programs, reflecting a commitment to developing a skilled workforce in the agriculture domain.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SR65 appears to be positive, with recognition of the vitality of agricultural education as a means to fortify the state’s economy. The resolution's proactive stance indicates a responsive approach to educational funding, intended to nurture future professionals who can contribute to the sector. However, the necessity for the resolution itself hints at previous challenges in funding allocation, indicating an area where legislative intervention is required to achieve broader educational goals.

Contention

While SR65 does not appear to have significant points of contention based on the documentation reviewed, it does call upon the Senate Committee to evaluate existing funding structures. It emphasizes the urgency for reform, suggesting that without such a study and potential adjustments, Louisiana risks falling behind in agricultural education quality. The dialogue around this resolution may reveal underlying tensions regarding educational funding priorities and resource allocation within the state's budget.