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Jindal vetoes economic development reporting bill
Gov. Bobby Jindal rejected a bill aimed at getting more information about jobs and businesses recruited by the state’s economic development office. In his veto letter, the governor indicated that the bill could hurt business recruitment in LA by requiring the dept to publish information about every company contact it makes, even “casual inquiries.” Full Article.
Jindal to veto bill stripping confidentiality in ethics complaints
A spokesman for Gov. Bobby Jindal says the governor will veto a bill that would strip confidentiality for people who file ethics complaints against public officials. The bill would entitle the accused to know the name of the person who filed the complaint with the LA Board of Ethics, once the investigation is done and the accused is either cleared or found in violation—or after the board decides not to proceed with charges. Full Article.
Public records bill dies in Senate
The LA Senate recently killed legislation that would have opened to the public more Governors’ Office records. Only 14 senators voted for the measure while 23 senators opposed it. Full Article.
Teacher evaluation bill clears Senate
Gov. Bobby Jindal’s plan to overhaul the way public-school teachers are evaluated neared final approval when the bill passed the state Senate. The measure, House Bill 1033, is one of Jindal’s top two education priorities of the session. Backers are also accelerating action on the measure in hopes that it can be attached to Louisiana’s second bid for federal “Race To The Top” dollars. Full Article.
LA House Committee rejects smoking ban bill
A House panel rejected a Senate-passed measure, voting 8-4 to defer the legislation that would have banned smoking in Louisiana bars and casinos — likely ending the battle in the 2010 legislative session. Full Article.
Panel debates seat-belt legislation
LA’s House Transportation Committee recently approved a bill that would double initial fines for failing to wear a seat belt. The assessment raises the fine for first-time seat belt offenders from $25 to $50. The penalty for second-time offenders would rise from $50 to $75. Third and subsequent offenses would cost $100, plus court costs. Full Article.
Bill proposes daylight-saving time year-round
One lawmaker is proposing that LA observe daylight-saving time year-round. The bill is scheduled for a hearing in the House Commerce Committee, and would require a permanent “spring forward,” prohibiting the state from reverting back to standard time. Full Article.
And then there was healthcare…
Last night, our government made history as representatives voted to pass the landmark health care overhaul legislation, but Republicans in the Senate still have an opportunity to try to derail the bill. Late Sunday, the House passed the Senate's version of the comprehensive bill, and because most members didn't like it, they also passed a smaller bill of so-called "fixes." Full Article.
