Louisiana House Bill HB478

Louisiana 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/20
• Refer: 2/28/20
• Refer: 3/9/20

Caption

Establishes the State Cybersecurity and Information Technology Fund and dedicates revenues to the fund

Impact

The enactment of HB 478 is expected to have a significant impact on state laws regarding technology funding. By legally designating funds specifically for cybersecurity and IT infrastructure enhancements, the bill facilitates a more focused allocation of state resources toward these critical areas. This might lead to improved infrastructure and security measures within state agencies and departments, setting a precedent for prioritizing technology in government operations.

Summary

House Bill 478 establishes the State Cybersecurity and Information Technology Fund in Louisiana, aiming to enhance the state's information technology infrastructure and address cybersecurity needs. The bill outlines the funding mechanism, which involves depositing 0.35% of all revenues flowing through the Bond Security and Redemption Fund into this special treasury fund. This fund is intended exclusively for projects improving or upgrading technology and cybersecurity initiatives within the state.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 478 appears to be supportive, particularly among those who view cybersecurity as an essential element of state governance. Advocates assert that the establishment of a dedicated fund signals a proactive approach to managing technology and security risks. Nonetheless, there may be concerns regarding how effectively the funds will be utilized and whether they will address the pressing cybersecurity challenges faced by state entities.

Contention

Although there is overall support for HB 478, some contention may arise regarding the prioritization of projects funded by the newly established fund. The potential formation of a legislative committee to oversee these priorities could lead to debates about which projects are deemed essential and how best to allocate limited resources. Furthermore, the reliance on the Bond Security and Redemption Fund for these appropriations may raise questions about the sustainability and availability of funding for other state initiatives.