Authorizes a member of the Joint Medicaid Oversight Committee to request the presiding officer of his house to designate another member to serve as his proxy at a meeting of the committee that the member is unable to attend
Impact
The amendment to the Joint Rules introduced by HCR3 does not directly change state laws but modifies internal legislative procedures. By allowing the designation of proxies, it enhances the functionality of the Joint Medicaid Oversight Committee. It reflects an adjustment to legislative protocol that could improve the effectiveness of health oversight in Louisiana, particularly as it pertains to Medicaid, which is a critical program for many residents in the state. This change aims to increase participation and ensure that decisions made by the committee reflect a broader input from its designated members.
Summary
HCR3 is a House Concurrent Resolution from the Louisiana legislature that seeks to amend and readopt Joint Rule No. 11(A)(1) of the Joint Rules governing the Senate and House of Representatives. This legislation specifically focuses on the processes of the Joint Medicaid Oversight Committee, allowing members who are unable to attend meetings to designate another member as their proxy. This change aims to ensure that the committee can operate smoothly even in the absence of some members, maintaining quorum and facilitating ongoing discussions and decisions regarding Medicaid oversight.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HCR3 appears to be neutral to positive, as it streamlines committee operations without controversial provisions. There was a unanimous vote in favor of the measure, as indicated by the Senate vote of 34-0, suggesting a bipartisan agreement on the importance of maintaining an active and functioning oversight committee despite the potential absence of its members. The broad support indicates that lawmakers recognize the necessity of adaptability in legislative processes, particularly regarding vital healthcare programs.
Contention
While HCR3 does not present significant points of contention, it is important to note that any changes to legislative procedures can elicit discussions about the implications of proxy voting. Critics may voice concerns about accountability and representation, questioning whether proxy votes truly encapsulate the original member's stance. However, the absence of dissenting votes in this case indicates that legislators largely viewed the benefits of increased operational efficiency as outweighing potential drawbacks.
Proxy Voting for New Parents ResolutionThis resolution authorizes proxy voting in the House of Representatives for a Member who has given birth or whose spouse has given birth and pregnant Members who are unable to travel safely or have a serious medical condition.Under the resolution, a qualifying Member may designate a proxy to cast a vote in a committee, the Committee of the Whole, or on the House floor; however, proxies will not be counted for purposes of establishing a quorum. The proxy designation is valid for up to 12 weeks.To designate a proxy for House and Committee of the Whole votes, the Member must submit a signed and dated letter to the Clerk stating the Member’s qualifying circumstances and the name and state of the Member who has agreed to be designated as proxy. A Member who has designated a proxy according to these requirements may also designate a proxy for committee votes. To designate a proxy for committee votes, the Member must provide the committee chair and ranking minority member with a signed and dated letter specifying another member of the committee to cast a proxy vote. The resolution further provides that a Member may revoke the proxy authorization by (1) casting the Member’s own vote; (2) recording the Member’s own presence in the House or in the Committee of the Whole; or (3) in a committee, by submitting a signed letter to the chair and ranking minority member.
Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; provision related to officeholders raising funds when facing a recall; modify, and require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.
Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; funds donated to a candidate for recall efforts; require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.
A concurrent resolution recognizing wild rice as sacred and central to the culture and health of Indigenous Peoples in Minnesota and critical to the health and identity of all Minnesota citizens and ecosystems and establishing a commitment to passing legislation to protect wild rice and the freshwater resources upon which it depends.