Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

Louisiana Senate Bill SB86

Introduced
3/30/17  
Introduced
3/30/17  
Refer
3/30/17  
Refer
4/10/17  
Report Pass
4/18/17  
Engrossed
4/25/17  
Refer
4/26/17  
Refer
4/26/17  
Report Pass
5/11/17  
Report Pass
5/11/17  
Enrolled
6/8/17  
Enrolled
6/8/17  
Vetoed
6/29/17  

Caption

Permits the governing authorities of certain parishes to employ their own attorneys to represent them generally. (gov sig)

Impact

The introduction of SB 86 is expected to shift aspects of legal governance in the specified parishes. By empowering local governing bodies to hire their own attorneys, these parishes will have the flexibility to choose legal representation that aligns more closely with their unique contexts. This change could lead to improved legal services for local government needs but may also raise questions about the adequacy and oversight of such legal counsel compared to traditionally managed representations under district attorneys.

Summary

Senate Bill 86 permits certain parishes in Louisiana, specifically those with populations between sixty and seventy thousand or between six and seven thousand, to employ their own attorneys. This legislation seeks to amend existing laws that traditionally required the district attorney to represent these governing authorities, thereby allowing for greater autonomy in legal representation. The bill aims to enhance the governance capabilities of smaller parishes by providing them the option to retain legal counsel that best serves their specific needs.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 86 appears largely favorable, particularly among proponents of local government autonomy and efficiency. Supporters argue that the bill encourages local solutions to governance issues, while critics may express concerns regarding the potential implications for the accountability and objectivity of legal services rendered within these parishes. The broader debate touches on themes of local control versus centralized oversight in governmental operations.

Contention

The primary contention regarding this bill revolves around the implications of allowing parishes to employ independent attorneys. Opponents may argue that this could erode the role of district attorneys, leading to a fragmented legal representation framework. Furthermore, there are concerns about how this shift could affect access to justice and the quality of legal services provided to local governments. Ultimately, the bill highlights the ongoing dialogue about the balance of power between state and local governance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA SB128

Authorizes the governing authority of Acadia Parish to employ its own attorneys to represent it generally. (gov sig)

LA HB147

Allows governing authorities of certain parishes to adopt certain regulations related to firearms and ammunition

LA HB209

Allows governing authorities of certain parishes to adopt certain regulations related to firearms and ammunition

LA SB60

Provides relative to the payment of certain insurance premium costs for certain retired assessors and assessors' employees in Caldwell and Lincoln parishes. (8/1/12) (EN +$10,000 LF EX See Note)

LA SB58

Provides relative to the statewide human services districts and authorities. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

LA HB281

Requires the assessor in certain parishes to pay insurance premiums for retirees (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)

LA HB506

Provides for election districts for the election of members to the United States House of Representatives

LA HB482

Provides for election districts for the election of members to the United States House of Representatives

LA HB188

Expands eligibility for payment of certain insurance premium costs for retired assessor's and assessor's employees in the parishes of LaSalle, Rapides, Sabine, and Winn (OR +$12,360 LF EX See Note)

LA HB21

Provides for the districts for the election of members to the House of Representatives (Item #1)

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