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Appropriations panel approves bill to create Louisiana State Infrastructure Fund to leverage federal and private dollars
Summary
Committee adopted technical amendments and reported House Bill 11 57 favorable, a proposal to create a state infrastructure fund and accounts intended to combine state, federal and private money to accelerate transportation, port and other eligible projects.
The House Appropriations Committee on Wednesday reported House Bill 11 57 favorable as amended, a measure to create a Louisiana State Infrastructure Fund and separate accounts designed to attract federal and private capital to transportation, port and related projects.
Representative Bridal, the sponsor, said the measure is modeled on programs in other states and would “stretch our limited taxpayer dollars” by using state resources to leverage outside funding and speed project delivery. Miss Robinson explained amendment set 4,012, which brought the fund and account language into conformity with standard state fund structure and included technical clarifications.
Committee members asked whether the fund is limited to roads and bridges; Bridal said the initial focus is on projects highlighted by federal infrastructure codes—ports, rail, roads and bridges—with flexibility to expand later and consideration of coastal restoration in the future. After adopting the conforming amendments, members moved the bill favorable as amended by unanimous consent.
Supporters at the hearing included designees from Governor Landry and representatives of local economic development organizations. The bill was reported favorable as amended and will proceed in the legislative process.
