Committee action, May 21: HB 790, HB 446, HB 960, HB 911

DID YOU KNOW?
HB 790 would eliminate the July election date. Author Rep. Franklin Foil noted to the Senate and Governmental Affairs Committee it was similar to Sen. Jack Donahue’s SB 271. Again, Sec. of State Jay Dardenne pointed out how turnout, at an average of 5.8 percent, was abysmal during these elections and would save about a million bucks a year by ending it. Without objection, it was reported favorably.

DID YOU KNOW?
HB 446 would remove the state’s requirement that there be an official printed journal of the acts passed by the state. Author Rep. Hunter Greene asked for voluntary deferral since his HB 431, a constitutional amendment which does the same thing, was on the floor awaiting action and it would be premature to deal with it until the other’s fate was known.

DID YOU KNOW?
HB 960 would increase early voting in more parishes. Dardenne said a limited number should be added (given costs and logistics); the bill provided for 10. Sen. Lydia Jackson asked about which ones would be added; Dardenne pointed out he would make that decision and bring it to legislative committees, and even as the bill did not specify a timetable, Dardenne thought he could get the job done in time for elections as long as the relevant committees were able to hear it. Author Rep. Rick Gallot pledged quick review by the House and Governmental Affairs Committee. Without objection it was reported favorably.

DID YOU KNOW?
HB 911 allows elected officials to attend other officials’ campaign fundraisers without paying for it. Author Gallot said this was unintended and he also expanded it to include all public servants’ attendance. Sen. Edwin Murray wondered whether the name and office of the attendee should be listed on a program to qualify for the exemption. Gallot didn’t think so, and Murray thought that was appropriate. Without objection, it was reported favorably.