Louisiana 2015 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB786

Introduced
4/21/15  
Introduced
4/21/15  
Refer
4/22/15  
Refer
4/22/15  
Report Pass
4/27/15  

Caption

Increases and provides for inspection and supervision fees (EG +$700,000 SD RV See Note)

Impact

The enactment of HB 786 is expected to enhance the financial resources available to the Louisiana Public Service Commission, thereby potentially improving its ability to regulate and supervise motor carriers and utility companies effectively. The bill also introduces a provision that mandates any excess funds, after covering the operational costs of the commission, to be rebated to the respective entities within 90 days of the end of each fiscal year. This approach could alleviate financial burdens on operators by returning surplus fees while still ensuring sufficient resources for regulatory activities.

Summary

House Bill 786 proposes an increase in fees imposed on certain motor carriers and public utilities governed by the Public Service Commission in Louisiana. Specifically, the bill raises fees that are based on gross receipts, with incremental increases for different thresholds ranging from $1,000 to over $100,000,000. These changes aim to augment the revenue collected for oversight activities carried out by the commission and ensure that the levels of supervision can adequately meet the needs of the public service sector.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be mixed, reflecting a balance between the necessity of funding regulatory operations and the financial impact on businesses. Supporters argue that higher fees are warranted to enhance regulatory oversight, ensuring better safety and service quality. Conversely, detractors may view the fee increases as an additional financial burden on businesses already operating on thin margins, which could lead to calls for legislative moderation in fee structures.

Contention

Key points of contention revolve around the fairness and necessity of the fee increases. Advocates of the bill underscore the importance of adequate funding for the Public Service Commission to effectively carry out its duties. In contrast, critics may argue against the feasibility of imposing higher costs on utility and carrier operators, raising concerns about the potential for adverse effects on service rates or the operational sustainability of smaller providers. This debate signifies an ongoing dialogue about balancing regulatory needs with economic concerns within the state.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HB431

Increases and provides for inspection and supervision fees for common and contract motor carriers and public utilities (EN +$700,000 SD RV See Note)

LA HB1249

Provides relative to inspection and supervision fees paid by certain motor carriers and public utilities doing business in this state (EN NO IMPACT SD RV See Note)

LA HB1169

Provides relative to fees for certain rural water utility systems (OR -$218,000 SD RV See Note)

LA HB738

Provides relative to the enforcement and supervision of the collection of certain inspection and supervision fees (EGF NO IMPACT SD RV See Note)

LA HB464

Provides for pipeline safety inspection fees (EN INCREASE SD RV See Note)

LA HB564

Provides relative to motor vehicle inspections (RE INCREASE SG RV See Note)

LA HB784

Provides for certain fees collected by the office of conservation (EN INCREASE SD RV See Note)

LA HB736

Provides relative to the state excise tax levied on special fuels and for the administration and collection of the tax (EG INCREASE SD RV See Note)

LA HB493

Provides for fees on emergency ground ambulance providers and the disposition of fees (EN INCREASE SD RV See Note)

LA HB66

Provides for setting tuition and fees at public postsecondary education institutions (EG INCREASE SG RV See Note)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.