(Constitutional Amendment) Removes governor's authority to veto line items in an appropriation bill (OR NO IMPACT See Note)
Impact
The impact of HB 32, if enacted, would be significant in redefining the balance of power between the legislative and executive branches of Louisiana's government. It would consolidate power within the legislature by ensuring that the total appropriations set forth are no longer subject to veto, thus making it harder for the governor to exert influence over budgeting decisions. This change could lead to increased legislative independence in fiscal matters, but it could also raise concerns about accountability, as governors will lose one of their primary tools to negotiate adjustments to budgetary priorities.
Summary
House Bill 32 aims to propose a constitutional amendment that would remove the governor's authority to veto line items in an appropriation bill. Under the current constitution, the governor has the power to veto specific items within the budget, which serves as a check on the legislative process. This bill seeks to eliminate that authority, potentially streamlining the budgeting process by limiting the executive's ability to selectively reject funding allocations. By placing this amendment before the voters, the bill emphasizes a shift towards legislative control over budgetary appropriations without executive interference.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 32 appears to be mixed, with proponents advocating for greater legislative autonomy and critics warning against the potential for financial mismanagement without the governor's oversight. Supporters argue that it promotes a more stable and predictable budgeting environment, while opponents believe that it could lead to unchecked legislative spending. This division suggests broader concerns about the effectiveness of fiscal controls and the potential consequences of removing the governor's veto power on state expenditures.
Contention
Notable points of contention regarding this bill revolve around the implications of removing the veto authority. Some legislators may fear that failing to have a veto option could lead to a fiscal free-for-all, where the legislature could pass expenditures without appropriate checks and balances. Additionally, the debate may highlight issues of accountability and governance, pushing lawmakers to consider how to maintain fiscal discipline in a system that is designed to prevent excess spending without the veto provision. As such, discussions about HB 32 will likely address the fundamental principles of separation of powers and responsible governance in Louisiana.
(Constitutional Amendment) Requires certain money from vetoed line item appropriations be deposited into the Budget Stabilization Fund (OR INCREASE SD RV See Note)
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.