Creation of a Joint Committee on State Mandates and required funding of state mandates. (FE)
Impact
By requiring that all future bills imposing mandates undergo scrutiny and receive funding before enforcement, AB92 seeks to protect local governments from potential fiscal strain due to state-imposed requirements. If the Legislative Fiscal Bureau determines that a mandate has a significant fiscal impact, then the committee is required to provide an amendment that appropriates funds to offset these costs. Consequently, local governments would receive annual reimbursements for the fiscal impacts of such imposed mandates, which could potentially ease their financial burdens.
Summary
Assembly Bill 92 is aimed at the establishment of a Joint Committee on State Mandates, which will be responsible for reviewing and evaluating statutory requirements imposed on local governmental units. The bill stipulates that any legislation placing a mandate on local governments must first be reviewed by this joint committee. The goal of the committee is to ensure that such mandates are properly funded, addressing concerns about unfunded mandates that may pose financial burdens on localities. Under this bill, a mandate is defined broadly, excluding only those with minimal fiscal impacts.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding AB92 include concerns from various stakeholders about the implications of a more centralized approach to local governance. Proponents argue that ensuring funding alongside mandate requirements creates a fairer playing field for local governments. However, critics express fears that the bill might restrict the ability of the state legislature to effectively implement necessary regulations, potentially leading to inefficiencies in addressing state-wide issues. Some believe it could create unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles that legislators may have to navigate each time new mandates are proposed.
Constitutional amendment proposal to exempt local governments and school districts from state mandates unless funding is provided to comply with the mandate
Imposing a moratorium on enactment of new or expanded health insurance policy mandated benefits; and requiring the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study the issue of health insurance mandates and report to the General Assembly.