Revises procedure regarding meetings to propose or renew taxes and to call an election. (8/1/18)
Impact
The implementation of SB 312 will directly affect the procedures that political subdivisions must follow when proposing tax measures. By establishing clear notice requirements, the legislation seeks to ensure that the public is adequately informed about critical financial decisions that impact them. The bill removes certain exceptions that once allowed for more lenient notification requirements, thereby standardizing the process across the state's political divisions. This could foster greater public involvement and scrutiny regarding tax proposals, potentially leading to more informed voter decisions during tax proposition elections.
Summary
Senate Bill 312, introduced by Senator LaFleur, aims to amend and reenact R.S. 42:19.1, which governs the notice requirements for public meetings held by political subdivisions when considering the implementation, increase, or renewal of certain taxes. The bill specifies the timeframe and procedure for notifying the public about meetings where tax proposals or elections are to be discussed. It will require that announcements be published in the official journal no more than sixty days and no less than twenty days prior to the meeting and also mandates communication with voting members of the governing authority. These changes aim to enhance transparency and accountability in governmental actions related to taxation.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB 312 appears to be largely supportive, as it is seen as a step towards improving governmental transparency. Advocates argue that the bill will create a more engaged citizenry and hold public officials accountable for their financial proposals. However, there may also be concerns regarding the administrative burden placed on political entities to comply with these more stringent notice requirements. Critics may argue that the increased regulations could impede timely decision-making processes, especially in urgent situations.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the practicality of the bill's compliance requirements. While the objective is to enhance public awareness and participation in tax-related decisions, some opponents might contend that the stringent notice provisions could lead to inefficiencies or delays in necessary financial actions, especially in cases where quick legislative responses are needed. An additional contention could include the impact on smaller political subdivisions that may struggle to meet the enhanced notice requirements due to limited resources.
Provides certain requirements for meetings at which consideration of or action upon proposals by political subdivisions to levy, increase, renew, or continue property or sales taxes, or authorize the calling of an election for submittal of such question to voters are scheduled. (8/1/13) (EN INCREASE LF EX See Note)
Exempts taxing authorities in Lafayette Parish from certain public notice requirements regarding increases or renewals of property taxes which requirements are in excess of general requirements for public notices as provided in the open meetings law (OR NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)
Requires written or emailed notice of a meeting concerning tax measures to be provided to certain officials and excludes certain meetings of political subdivisions concerning tax measures from certain notice requirements. (8/1/14)
Health occupations: health professionals; permanent revocation of license or registration if convicted of sexual conduct under pretext of medical treatment; provide for. Amends sec. 16226 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16226). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4121'23
Payment rates established for certain substance use disorder treatment services, and vendor eligibility recodified for payments from the behavioral health fund.