Directs each state department to submit to the commissioner of administration, the legislature, and the Task Force on Structural Changes in Budget and Tax Policy, an efficiency report that outlines initiatives they will undertake to ensure more efficient operations in Fiscal Year 2016-2017 and beyond (EN NO IMPACT See Note)
Impact
This resolution calls for a systematic review of state government operations, which may lead to significant changes in how departments function. By outlining their respective initiatives, departments will be encouraged to eliminate duplication of services and improve policies that hinder efficient operations. The reports will also cover procurement processes, civil service procedures, and new technology uses aimed at modernizing government practices. As such, this could mean a shift in state governance towards greater accountability and efficiency which could have long-term financial implications.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution No. 25 (HCR25) directs the executive branch departments of Louisiana state government to submit efficiency reports aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness starting from the Fiscal Year 2016-2017. The resolution was proposed in light of ongoing budget deficits, projected to reach $747 million for the 2016-2017 fiscal year. The intent is to encourage each department to evaluate its practices and structures to find potential savings or ways to generate additional revenues for the state. The success of this initiative hinges on a thorough assessment of all operational areas within the government.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment around HCR25 appears to be supportive, as it promotes transparency and encourages government departments to adopt a proactive approach to operational efficiency. Legislators recognize the necessity of fiscal reform, especially given the continuous budgetary strains. However, there may be underlying concerns regarding the execution of these reforms and whether the proposed reporting system will produce the intended results without overburdening the departments involved.
Contention
While Resolution HCR25 promotes efficiency, there may be contention regarding the report's implementation. Some lawmakers might worry about the feasibility of gathering comprehensive reports from each department within the stipulated timeline and whether the proposed measures will lead to actionable outcomes or merely serve as a bureaucratic exercise. Additionally, concerns could arise about the impact on employees and services as departments are pushed to prioritize efficiency over maintaining existing standards or practices.
Directs Bd. of Regents to submit by April 15, 2016, a report outlining initiatives the board, in consultation with management boards, will take to ensure greater efficiency in postsecondary education for the 2016-2017 Fiscal Year and beyond
Creates the Task Force on Structural Changes in Budget and Tax Policy to continue the budget and tax reform evaluations begun in the 2016 First Extraordinary Session and urges and requests the governor to support and implement initiatives for structural change introduced in upcoming sessions that will lead to savings through more efficient and effective state operations
Directs the commissioner of administration, the commissioner of higher education, and statewide elected officials to review certain state contracts to identify any that can be terminated and report to the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget by March 1, 2016 (EN NO IMPACT See Note)
Directs the division of administration to review the historical purchasing of state agencies in the last two months of the fiscal year and report its findings and any recommendations for efficient purchasing practices to the House of Representatives no later than 30 days prior to the convening of the 2017 Regular Session of the Legislature
Directs executive branch agencies receiving appropriations to prepare a report detailing the amount and impact of cuts to the agency's budget in FY 2016-2017 (EN NO IMPACT See Note)