Louisiana 2020 Regular Session

Louisiana Senate Bill SB235

Introduced
2/27/20  
Introduced
2/27/20  
Refer
2/27/20  
Refer
2/27/20  
Refer
3/9/20  

Caption

Constitutional amendment to provide for the taxing authority of levee districts. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (OR NO IMPACT LF RV See Note)

Impact

If enacted, this bill would impact the taxing powers of levee districts, allowing them to propose annual tax levies without the previously imposed restrictions. This means that levee districts would be granted more authority to raise necessary funds for flood protection and related activities, which is particularly relevant in an area prone to flooding such as Louisiana. The measure would subject tax increases to voter approval, ensuring local control while enabling districts to effectively manage their funding needs for critical infrastructure.

Summary

Senate Bill 235 proposes a constitutional amendment regarding the taxing authority of levee districts in Louisiana. Specifically, it seeks to revise Article VI, Section 39 of the Louisiana Constitution to modify millage limits for levee districts. The amendment aims to allow all levee districts, including those created after January 1, 2006, to have greater flexibility in setting tax rates for maintaining and constructing levees and providing flood protection, thereby standardizing the taxing authority irrespective of the date of creation of the levee districts.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 235 is likely to be mixed, as it affects local governance and financial autonomy within the various levee districts. Proponents may argue that the ability to raise more funds is essential for effective flood management and infrastructure maintenance. However, there could be concerns voiced by constituents about increased taxes and the implications for community budgets, making this a contentious topic as voters weigh the need for strong levees against potential tax burden.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill may include debates over fiscal responsibility and local sovereignty. Critics might argue that increasing the taxing authority further centralizes power away from local governance, raising fears about the potential for disproportionate impacts on specific communities. Conversely, supporters may emphasize the necessity of improved flood control measures and the urgency of securing adequate funding, especially after experiencing natural disasters. The outcome will ultimately hinge on how voters perceive the balance between necessary infrastructure improvements and their financial implications.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA SB88

Constitutional Amendment to authorize the local governing authority of a parish to provide an increase to the homestead exemption. (2/3-CA13s1(A)) (OR SEE FISC NOTE LF RV See Note)

LA SB56

Constitutional amendment to authorize the local governing authority of a parish to provide an increase to the homestead exemption. (2/3-CA13s1(A)) (OR SEE FISC NOTE LF RV)

LA SB7

Constitutional Amendment to authorize a parish governing authority to increase the homestead exemption. (2/3- CA13s1(A))(1/1/27) (OR SEE FISC NOTE LF RV)

LA SB109

Constitutional amendment to provide for foreign donations in elections. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

LA SB115

Constitutional amendment to extend eligibility for the special assessment level for residential property receiving the homestead exemption to certain persons. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (1/1/27) (EG DECREASE LF RV See Note)

LA SB230

Constitutional amendment to establish a state livable wage. (2/3-CA13s1(A)) (1/1/27) (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)

LA HB521

(Constitutional Amendment) Authorizes a taxing authority to levy a millage at a rate lower than the maximum authorized rate under certain circumstances (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF RV See Note)

LA SB25

Constitutional amendment to grant the St. George community school system in East Baton Rouge Parish the same authority granted to parishes to operate a school system. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (EN +$2,457,390 GF EX See Note)

LA SB57

Constitutional Amendment to remove the income limitation for persons age sixty-five or older that qualify for the special assessment level for residential property receiving the homestead exemption. (2/3-CA13s1(A)) (1/1/27) (EG DECREASE LF RV See Note)

LA HB38

(Constitutional Amendment) To authorize local taxing authorities to enter into cooperative endeavor agreements for the purpose of payments in lieu of taxes (Item #28) (OR SEE FISC NOTE LF RV See Note)

Similar Bills

AR SB425

To Amend Various Provisions Of The Arkansas Code Concerning Enhanced Transportation; And To Declare An Emergency.

TX HB5663

Relating to the authority of the Wood County Central Hospital District of Wood County, Texas, to provide brain and memory care services to residents of the hospital district through the creation and operation of brain and memory health care services districts.

KY HR1

A RESOLUTION establishing the 2026 membership of the Kentucky State House of Representatives.

KY HR1

A RESOLUTION establishing the 2025 membership of the Kentucky State House of Representatives.

LA HB719

Provides relative to the number of assistant district attorneys in each judicial district (RE +$2,274,000 GF EX See Note)

KY HR1

A RESOLUTION establishing the 2022 membership of the Kentucky State House of Representatives.

LA SB454

Provides for a population based allocation of assistant district attorney positions in the state. (7/1/26) (OR +$397,950 GF EX See Note)

VA HB29

Chaptered