Louisiana Senate Bill SCR12

Louisiana 2020 2nd Special Session

• Introduced: 10/6/20
• Refer: 10/6/20
• Report Pass: 10/7/20
• Passed: 10/12/20
• Engrossed: 10/12/20
• Refer: 10/12/20

Caption

Provides for legislative approval of BESE adopted adjustments to the MFP formula by ballot when the legislature is not in session. (Item #4)

Impact

This resolution changes how educational funding adjustments can be made, allowing for more immediate responses to emergencies that would otherwise disrupt schooling and ensure that education services are maintained during crises. The implementation of SCR12 would streamline the process for adjusting funding formulas in emergencies, ultimately benefiting schools that might face sudden financial strains or declines in student attendance due to disasters. By adopting this resolution, Louisiana aims to safeguard education during unprecedented situations, ensuring that resources are allocated swiftly where needed most.

Summary

SCR12 is a legislative resolution proposed to facilitate rapid adjustments to the Minimum Foundation Program (MFP) formula, which governs public school funding in Louisiana. The resolution allows for the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) to adopt adjustments to the MFP formula in response to a gubernatorially declared disaster or emergency, even when the legislature is not in session. Under this system, legislative approval for such adjustments must be handled by ballot rather than through the standard legislative process, which may involve extensive debates and votes during session periods.

Sentiment

During discussions surrounding SCR12, the sentiment among legislators appeared overwhelmingly positive, with a unanimous vote of 30-0 in the Senate, indicating strong bipartisan support for the resolution. Lawmakers largely saw the necessity and urgency of adapting the MFP through this accelerated methodology, reflecting a collective recognition of the challenges posed by natural disasters or other emergencies that could adversely affect educational systems.

Contention

While the overall reception of SCR12 has been favorable, it also raises concerns regarding the delegation of authority to BESE and the process of using ballots for approval instead of typical legislative measures. Some critics may argue that this could lead to hasty decisions without thorough scrutiny or debate, potentially undermining the rigor of legislative processes. The balance between effective emergency response and maintaining legislative checks and balances appears to be an underlying point of contention that needs careful consideration moving forward.