Louisiana House Bill HB84

Louisiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/22
• Refer: 2/15/22
• Refer: 3/14/22
• Report Pass: 4/12/22

Caption

Eliminates, subject to adoption of a constitutional amendment, the gubernatorial appointment of three members of the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, providing for an all-elected membership and reducing the membership to eight

Impact

The impact of HB 84 on state laws revolves around increasing the democratic representation within BESE, as it directly alters how board members are selected. The reduction of appointed positions may maintain or enhance accountability of board members to the public, as they would be elected rather than appointed by the governor. However, this change could also lead to shifts in educational policy based on electoral pressures, which may affect the consistency and focus of board initiatives. Fewer appointed members might be seen as a loss of executive oversight in educational governance, impacting how educational policies are formed and enacted in Louisiana.

Summary

House Bill 84 proposes significant changes to the governance structure of the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) in Louisiana. The bill aims to transition to an all-elected membership by eliminating the governor's authority to appoint three members, thereby reducing the overall membership from eleven to eight members. If enacted, this modification would mean that all members of BESE would be elected directly by the voters, thus fostering a stronger democratic process within the governance of education in the state. The proposed change is contingent on a constitutional amendment that must be adopted at a statewide election.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 84 appears mixed, reflecting broader partisan views on governance and education. Proponents of the bill argue that it empowers the electorate, allowing for greater accountability and representation in educational governance. They posit that an all-elected board is more aligned with democratic values and responsive to community needs. Conversely, opponents express concern that reducing the number of appointed members might lead to politicization of education, where decisions could be driven more by electoral considerations than by educational interests or expertise.

Contention

Key points of contention related to HB 84 include the concern over potential political influence in BESE's decision-making process as the board shifts to a fully elected structure. Critics argue that while increased public influence is desirable, the removal of the governor's role in appointments could undermine strategic governance and expert oversight necessary for managing educational standards effectively. The debate encapsulates larger discussions about the balance between democratic governance and the need for experienced leadership in education.