(Constitutional Amendment) Removes the governor's authority to veto line items in an appropriation bill
Impact
If passed, HB155 would significantly alter the state's budgetary process by limiting the executive branch's control over appropriations. This could lead to a more stable financial environment where the governor would no longer have the power to unilaterally eliminate specific funding allocations, allowing legislative bodies greater authority over budget decisions. However, the implications could also result in difficulties managing budgetary priorities as legislators may find it more challenging to make adjustments to spending after a budget has been approved.
Summary
House Bill 155 proposes a constitutional amendment to remove the governor's authority to veto line items in appropriation bills in Louisiana. Under the current provisions of the state constitution, the governor can veto specific items within an appropriation bill, which can then only be overridden by a two-thirds vote in both legislative houses. The amendment seeks to repeal this power and will be put to a vote by the state's citizens during the upcoming election on November 8, 2016.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB155 appears to be mixed. Proponents of the bill argue that repealing the line item veto will strengthen legislative authority and ensure a more democratic process for budget decisions. They view it as a way to promote transparency and accountability in how tax dollars are spent. Conversely, opponents warn that removing this power from the governor could lead to unrestrained legislative spending and a lack of checks and balances within the state government.
Contention
Debates have arisen around the practicality and necessity of this amendment. Critics suggest that the line item veto acts as an important tool for governors to manage state budgets effectively and ensure that unpopular or unnecessary expenditures can be curtailed. Supporters maintain that the legislature should have final say over appropriations and that the current system may allow for individual governors to wield excessive influence over budget priorities, leading to potential fiscal irresponsibility.
(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.