Establishes the One Call Agricultural Study Group.
Impact
SCR69's implementation is expected to facilitate a thorough analysis of how existing regulations affect agricultural practices in Louisiana. The study group, comprising representatives from various agricultural and conservation organizations, will make recommendations on potential changes to state laws. The resolution mandates that the committee provide a comprehensive report by February 1, 2021, which will be instrumental in guiding lawmakers on whether agricultural-specific exemptions are warranted within the damage prevention law.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 69 (SCR69) establishes the One Call Agricultural Study Group in Louisiana, aimed at reviewing and studying the state's Underground Utilities and Facilities Damage Prevention Law as it pertains specifically to the agricultural sector. This resolution is motivated by the fact that agricultural operators are not granted exemptions under the existing law, unlike similar statutes in neighboring states. The established study group is tasked with evaluating the impact of these laws on agriculture and considering whether amendments are necessary to provide exemptions for agricultural activities.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SCR69 appears to be positive, particularly among stakeholders in the agricultural sector who feel that the current laws do not adequately address their operational realities. By emphasizing a review of existing regulations, supporters believe this study group will highlight the unique needs of farmers and agricultural workers, potentially leading to legislative changes that support industry sustainability and productivity. However, there may be concerns among regulatory bodies regarding how exemptions could affect infrastructure and safety standards.
Contention
One notable point of contention may arise around the balance between agricultural needs and the broader implications of modifying utility damage prevention laws. While proponents of SCR69 advocate for exemptions that could relieve restrictions on agricultural operators, opponents may argue that such changes should not come at the expense of safety and public welfare associated with underground utility management. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the study group's recommendations could provoke debate about how best to modernize regulations while still fulfilling the law's protective intentions.
Requests the Department of Education to establish a group to study the current state of agriculture education in elementary and secondary schools. (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Recreates the Louisiana Public Defender Optimal Funding Group to study and make recommendations regarding the feasibility of establishing an optimal funding mechanism for the Louisiana Public Defender Board.
Establishes the Closed Party Primary Task Force to study the necessary steps to develop a closed party primary election system applicable at the federal, state, and local levels beginning with the 2022 congressional elections.
Establishes a task force to study and make recommendations relative to the authority for and use of the design-build method for contracts by public entities.
Establishes the Task Force on Local Impacts of Carbon Capture and Sequestration to study the benefits and revenue streams of carbon capture and sequestration projects.
Requests various public agencies and private associations and stakeholders to work in collaboration through the Human Trafficking of Minors Study Group to study and make recommendations to the legislature of methods which may be utilized in an effort to eliminate the human trafficking of minors in the state of Louisiana.