Establishes an amnesty program for fines, fees, and assessments imposed by state agencies (OR -$10,000,000 GF RV See Note)
Impact
The implementation of this bill is expected to impact state laws regarding debt recovery by formalizing a procedure for debtors to settle outstanding liabilities with the state. It is designed to promote fiscal responsibility while assisting residents in overcoming financial hurdles associated with unpaid state obligations. This could lead to an increase in revenue collection for state agencies as it encourages compliance through amnesty incentives. Furthermore, the Department of Revenue is tasked with promulgating necessary rules to facilitate this program, reinforcing the state's commitment to manage outstanding debts effectively.
Summary
House Bill 972 establishes a debt recovery amnesty program aimed at providing relief to individuals who owe fines, fees, and assessments imposed by state agencies. Under this program, individuals can have their interest, collection costs, and penalties waived if they apply for amnesty during the designated period and pay the original amount owed. The program is intended to enhance participation in settling these debts, thereby reducing the overall financial burden on individuals and aiding the state's revenue recovery efforts.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 972 appears to be largely positive, with proponents advocating that the amnesty program provides a necessary means for individuals facing financial woes to resolve their debts without the additional burdens of penalties and interest. This can be seen as a compassionate measure, considering the difficulties individuals may face during challenging economic times. However, some critics may question whether the implementation of such programs addresses the underlying issues of debt accumulation or simply serves as a temporary fix.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise from the potential for abuse of the program, where individuals could repeatedly rely on amnesty to avoid paying overdue obligations. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the extent to which the program genuinely alleviates the systemic issues leading to state debt or merely provides a short-sighted solution. As such, discussions may center around the efficacy and integrity of the program and its long-term implications on the relationship between state agencies and their constituents.
Limits the fees assessed by the office of debt recovery on delinquent debt that originates from certain criminal fines, fees, and costs (OR DECREASE SG RV See Note)
Establishes the office of debt recovery at the Dept. of Revenue for the collection of delinquent debts owed to certain governmental entities (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF RV See Note)
Provides for the collection of fees associated with payments to state agencies by credit cards, debit cards, or other forms of electronic payments (EN INCREASE SD RV See Note)
Establishes the La. Debt Recovery Program at the Dept. of Revenue for the collection of delinquent debts owed to certain governmental entities (RE INCREASE SG EX See Note)