Louisiana Senate Bill SB204

Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/31/17
• Refer: 3/31/17
• Refer: 4/10/17
• Report Pass: 5/1/17
• Engrossed: 5/9/17
• Refer: 5/10/17
• Report Pass: 5/18/17
• Enrolled: 6/1/17
• Chaptered: 6/12/17
• Passed: 6/12/17

Caption

Authorizes St. John the Baptist Parish to name a library after Norris Butch Millet Sr. (8/1/17)

Impact

The enactment of SB204 impacts state laws by creating a specific provision allowing local governments to designate public facilities after living persons. By bypassing the existing law that restricts such naming rights, it allows for a more personalized approach to honoring contributions from community members. Additionally, this bill can serve as a precedent for other parishes considering similar recognitions, potentially changing the landscape of how public honors are assigned in the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 204 (SB204) enacted in Louisiana authorizes the governing authority of St. John the Baptist Parish to name the central branch of its parish library in honor of a living individual, specifically Norris Butch Millet Sr. This follows a previous restriction outlined in R.S. 42:267 which generally prohibits naming public facilities after living persons. SB204 provides an exemption to this rule, thereby enabling local governance to recognize dedicated community members who have significantly contributed to local public services, particularly in the library sector.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB204 is positive, particularly within the local community. Many see this bill as a recognition of the contributions made by living individuals in public service, which fosters community pride and encourages further civic involvement. There might be ambivalence among those who support preserving the original intent of R.S. 42:267, arguing that honors should be reserved for those who have passed, to maintain a certain decorum in public naming practices.

Contention

Notable contention surrounding SB204 primarily revolves around the implications of granting local authorities the power to name public facilities after living persons. Critics may argue that this could lead to potential favoritism or conflicts of interest, especially if local officials are involved in decision-making concerning such honors. Proponents, however, counter that recognizing living individuals who have served their communities embodies the spirit of public engagement and serves to motivate others to contribute to their community.