School bus drivers in Louisiana have enjoyed tenure since 1944, but a bill passing committee today would end the benefit for new drivers. The author Rep. Joe Harrison, R-Napoleonville, said the bill would give more flexibility to school boards, particularly if they choose to privatize bus service. He cited a $14,000 cost to the Terrebonne Parish School Board to hold a tenure hearing. Louisiana Federation of Teachers President Steve Monaghan, noting that Harrison voted against the teacher tenure bill, said the practice is needed in the absence of collective bargaining rights for school employees. House Bill 293 passed the Education Committee, 9-3, and heads to the House floor. An identical bill reached the House floor last year and was rejected, 33-62. Bill supporters hope the changes in teacher tenure policy will aid passage of this bill.
—The Legislature interrupted business today for a star-studded celebration of the state’s bicentennial before a joint session, where legislators heard songs from Irma Thomas and Zachary Richard and comments from James Carville. Lt. Gov. Jay Dardenne emceed the event and will host a party at the State Museum tonight. When lawmakers get back to work, the House will reconsider a tax rebate bill for the New Orleans Hornets. The 49-48 vote for it last week fell four votes short of the House majority, with several expected yea votes absent. The annual $3.65 million annual rebate, which the Legislative Fiscal Office said would cost the state $54.75 through 2024, was part of negotiations that resulted in Tom Benson’s purchase of the team for $338 million. Legislators questioned granting the rebate when the state is facing a growing deficit next year. But author Rep. Cameron Henry, R-Metairie, said the deal would save the state about $70 million by relieving it of incentive obligations based on attendance.
(John Maginnis will publish a daily update throughout the legislative session on Daily Report PM. The report is also available to LaPolitics Weekly subscribers on the Subscribers Only page at LaPolitics.com. Registration is available on the homepage.)
Louisiana Public Broadcasting is providing a daily video update featuring highlights of the session, which you can see beginning at 6 p.m. here.
