Louisiana House Bill HB404

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/19
• Refer: 3/29/19
• Refer: 4/8/19
• Report Pass: 4/24/19
• Engrossed: 5/6/19
• Refer: 5/7/19
• Refer: 6/1/19
• Report Pass: 6/3/19
• Enrolled: 6/6/19
• Chaptered: 6/22/19
• Passed: 6/22/19

Caption

Abolishes certain boards, commissions, authorities, like entities, and related funds

Impact

The enactment of HB 404 will lead to significant changes in how certain state functions are executed, particularly in areas related to workforce development and transportation funding. With the abolition of the Workforce and Innovation for a Stronger Economy Fund, any unencumbered balances will be directed to the state general fund, shifting how resources are allocated amid other state priorities. Additionally, the bills' stipulations regarding financial redirects from certain funds to the Transportation Trust Fund may provide implications for infrastructure development in the state.

Summary

House Bill 404 focuses on reorganizing certain aspects of state governance by abolishing several inactive boards, commissions, and funds. This includes the dissolution of entities such as the Witness Protection Services Board and the Workforce and Innovation for a Stronger Economy Strategic Planning Council. The intention behind this legislative action is to streamline the functional organization of state government and ensure that only active and necessary bodies remain in operation. By removing these bureaucratic structures, the bill aims to foster a more efficient governmental process.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment surrounding HB 404 appears to be largely supportive among legislators, as it aligns with efforts to reduce government redundancy and improve efficiency. Stakeholders advocating for modernization within state governance have welcomed the bill as a step towards fiscal responsibility. However, there are pockets of criticism, particularly from those who believe that the elimination of certain boards may lead to a lack of oversight in critical areas like public safety and workforce initiatives.

Contention

Key points of contention include concerns that abolishing these boards may eliminate necessary expertise and oversight that they previously provided. Critics fear that dissolving such entities could lead to gaps in legislative attention in areas that require careful management, such as workforce innovation and public safety standards. The debate highlights a tension between reducing government bureaucracy and ensuring that essential public functions are adequately managed and regulated.