Louisiana 2021 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB614

Introduced
4/2/21  
Introduced
4/2/21  
Refer
4/2/21  
Refer
4/2/21  
Refer
4/12/21  

Caption

Provides with respect to the budget process (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

Impact

The legislation will fundamentally alter how budget proposals are presented and scrutinized within the state legislature. It mandates that the governor's executive budget request and any appropriations therefrom must receive a unanimous certification from the REC, which could streamline the approval process and ensure financial prudence. This measure aims to prevent the misallocation of resources and potential overspending, making it a significant development in Louisiana's fiscal procedures. The explicit requirements for budget certifications also seek to mitigate risks associated with fluctuating state revenues and economic uncertainties.

Summary

House Bill 614, introduced by Representative Geymann, outlines requirements and restrictions on the budgetary processes of the State of Louisiana, particularly focusing on the construction and passage of the general appropriation bill. The bill requires that the Revenue Estimating Conference (REC) must certify that any bill appropriating money aligns with specific criteria concerning nonrecurring revenues, contingent appropriations, and expenditure limits before legislative consideration. By clearly defining these procedures, the bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the state's financial management.

Sentiment

The general sentiment regarding HB 614 appears to be supportive among fiscal conservatives who advocate for stringent fiscal oversight and responsible budgetary practices. However, there are dissenting voices from those who may perceive the added requirements as bureaucratic hurdles that could complicate timely funding for essential services. The balance between maintaining strict budgetary controls and ensuring that necessary appropriations are not unnecessarily delayed will be a crucial point of discussion amongst legislators.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise surrounding the limitations imposed by the bill on how the state can utilize its financial resources. Some lawmakers are concerned that the restrictions on appropriating nonrecurring revenues for defined purposes may reduce flexibility during economic downturns when such funds might be critical for maintaining services. Additionally, the requirement for unanimous approval from the REC could either bolster collaborative budgeting practices or hinder legislative progress if disagreements arise among committee members.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA SB543

Provides with respect to the state budget. (7/1/14) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF RV See Note)

LA HB437

Provides with respect to the development of the budget (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

LA HB530

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the budget process (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF RV)

LA HB435

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the budget process (RR SEE FISC NOTE GF RV See Note)

LA HB511

Provides relative to budgetary operations and funding for the Department of Transportation and Development (RE SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

LA HB128

Provides relative to the powers and duties of the Cash Management Review Board with respect to financial security and cybersecurity plans and procedures adopted by state agencies, including the assessment and deployment of such plans and procedures (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

LA HB673

Provides with respect to the exclusions and exemptions applicable to sales and use taxes (RR2 SEE FISC NOTE GF RV See Note)

LA SB222

Provides for an incentive expenditure forecast to be established. (7/1/15) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF RV See Note)

LA HB646

Provides for an incentive expenditure forecast (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF RV See Note)

LA HB500

Provides for legislative development of budget (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)

Similar Bills

LA HB546

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the budget process

NJ SCR23

Proposes constitutional amendment to establish a 2 percent cap on annual appropriations increases for certain State government spending.

NJ SCR70

Proposes constitutional amendment to establish a 2 percent cap on annual appropriations increases for certain State government spending.

CA ACA9

Budget bill: passage requirements.

LA HB487

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to deficit avoidance procedures (EN SEE FISC NOTE SG EX See Note)

LA HB435

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the budget process (RR SEE FISC NOTE GF RV See Note)

MS SC529

Constitution; amend to define appropriation bill subject to Governor's partial veto power.

TX SB9

Relating to the constitutional limit on the rate of growth of appropriations and appropriations of constitutionally dedicated revenue.