Louisiana House Bill HCR8

Louisiana 2020 1st Special Session

• Introduced: 6/5/20
• Refer: 6/5/20
• Report Pass: 6/10/20
• Engrossed: 6/17/20
• Refer: 6/18/20

Caption

Requires all fiscal notes to be requested in writing and requires the name of the person who requested the fiscal note to appear on the face of the fiscal note

Impact

The adoption of HCR8 is expected to have a significant impact on how fiscal information is handled in state legislation. By standardizing the request process for fiscal notes, the resolution seeks to ensure that all fiscal implications are adequately considered before bills are voted on, adding an extra layer of scrutiny to the legislative process. This procedural shift may also enhance accountability among legislators, as it clarifies who is requesting these critical assessments and may facilitate follow-up questions during discussions.

Summary

HCR8 is a legislative resolution introduced to enhance the procedural clarity and accountability around fiscal notes in Louisiana's legislative process. This resolution mandates that all requests for fiscal notes must be submitted in written form, thereby eliminating the previous allowance for verbal or electronic requests. Furthermore, it requires the name of the individual requesting the fiscal note to be clearly specified on the document itself. This change aims to promote greater transparency in the legislative process regarding the fiscal implications of proposed laws.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HCR8 appears to be positive, with bipartisan support noted during discussions and voting. Legislators have largely recognized the importance of transparency in government operations, and the enhancements proposed by HCR8 are seen as a logical step towards ensuring that fiscal responsibility is properly addressed within the legislative framework. The overwhelming vote of 95 to 1 in favor of the resolution suggests a strong consensus on the necessity of improving fiscal note requests.

Contention

While the bill did not face substantial opposition, some members voiced concerns about the practicality of requiring all requests in writing, fearing it could slow down the process in urgent legislative situations. However, these concerns were largely outweighed by the anticipated benefits of clarity and accountability in fiscal assessments. Overall, the resolution builds upon existing legislative rules without introducing major controversial changes, which may have contributed to its smooth passage through the legislature.