Louisiana House Bill HB84

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/19/19
• Refer: 3/19/19
• Refer: 4/8/19
• Report Pass: 4/29/19
• Engrossed: 5/8/19
• Refer: 5/9/19
• Report Pass: 5/20/19
• Enrolled: 6/4/19
• Chaptered: 6/6/19
• Passed: 6/6/19

Caption

To provide for funds collected from boat registration fees (EN NO IMPACT See Note)

Impact

The passage of HB 84 will reinforce regulations concerning derelict houseboats, as funds will be utilized to provide grants to parish governments specifically for the removal of abandoned vessels from various waterways. This is crucial for maintaining the ecological integrity of these water bodies and promoting the safety and recreational use of Louisiana's natural resources. The bill retains provisions that allow a portion of the Derelict Houseboat Fund to be used for program administration and other relevant purposes determined by the commission.

Summary

House Bill 84, introduced by Representative White, focuses on the allocation and management of funds derived from motorboat and sailboat registration fees in Louisiana. The bill aims to amend existing provisions related to the Derelict Houseboat Fund by re-routing certain registration revenues into the Conservation Fund, allowing for broader administrative use by the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. This change is expected to enhance the efficiency of the state’s regulatory framework concerning boat ownership and the removal of derelict vessels from waterways.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 84 appears to be supportive among environmental advocates and local regulators, who see the bill as a proactive step toward addressing an ongoing issue of abandoned houseboats that pose hazards to ecosystems and public safety. There is an acknowledgment of the need for effective management of these funds to ensure that cleanup efforts are appropriately funded and executed. No significant opposition was noted in the provided voting history, suggesting a consensus on the bill's objectives.

Contention

While the bill has largely gained support, there may be concerns regarding the allocation of funds and whether prioritization for derelict vessel removal might overshadow other pressing environmental issues. Moreover, the transition of funds from registration fees into different pools raises questions about the initial intentions behind these fees and whether they serve their original purpose effectively. However, the bill aims for increased state efficiency in managing these financial resources while enhancing legislative oversight.