Louisiana Senate Bill SB230

Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/31/17
• Refer: 3/31/17
• Refer: 4/10/17
• Report Pass: 5/1/17
• Engrossed: 5/9/17
• Refer: 5/10/17
• Report Pass: 5/17/17
• Enrolled: 5/31/17
• Chaptered: 6/12/17
• Passed: 6/12/17

Caption

Removes certain museums from the jurisdiction of the Department of State. (gov sig) (EN -$118,305 GF EX See Note)

Impact

The impact of SB 230 on state laws is significant, as it effectively deregulates the management of specific museums, allowing for potentially greater autonomy in their operations. The repeal of the chapters that previously governed these museums signals a shift in how cultural institutions are managed in Louisiana. The bill is designed to allow those entities to operate with more flexibility and to ensure they are not constrained by unnecessary governmental oversight, which supporters argue could lead to improved services and offerings to the public.

Summary

Senate Bill 230, introduced by Senator Lafleur, seeks to amend various statutes regarding the governance and oversight of certain museums in Louisiana. Specifically, the bill removes the jurisdiction of the Department of State over several museum entities, thereby dissolving their governing boards and eliminating related statutory provisions. This legislative move aims to streamline the administration of these museums by transferring their oversight to other designated departments or agencies, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing bureaucratic overhead.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB 230 appears to be supportive among legislators who advocate for less governmental intervention in cultural affairs. Proponents view the bill as a necessary step towards modernizing the management of museums, believing it could lead to enhanced cultural programming and increased community engagement. However, concerns have been raised by critics fearing that the reduction of governmental oversight might lead to decreased accountability and transparency in how these museums are operated and funded.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include concerns regarding the potential loss of legislative support for certain museums that may rely on state funding and oversight for their operations. Critics argue that while deregulation might streamline operations, it could also jeopardize the mission and preservation initiatives of these cultural institutions, potentially leading to varied quality and accessibility of museum services across the state. The debate centers on finding a balance between efficiency and accountability in the governance of culturally significant institutions.