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Bill to equalize assessor pay with clerks moves forward amid debate over timing and study
Summary
Finance Committee reported HB12 favorable after extended debate about whether the assessors’ four‑year, 5% schedule (to equalize pay with clerks by 2029) should be shortened to three years; members agreed to pursue a study resolution to provide more transparent data before final decisions on permanent fixes.
Representative Bridal (S18) presented HB12 on behalf of the Louisiana Assessors Association to equalize annual compensation for assessors by allowing each local assessor to opt in to up to 5% annual increases through 2029, intended to align assessor pay with recent clerk increases. Bridal said the measure would have no state general‑fund impact and would affect only local assessor budgets for offices choosing to opt in.
Senators questioned the length and sequencing of the increase. Senator Presley (S6) advocated for a three‑year schedule so assessors and clerks would be on the same cycle; other members, including Senator Boudreaux (S3), urged caution and recommended tying the schedule to a study. Participants referenced a private analysis by consultant Allen Miller outlining projected disparities over four years and advising the selected schedule as a path to equality by 2029.
Multiple assessors and association representatives (names listed on witness cards read into the record) voiced support. Senate members proposed and discussed a concurrent study resolution to make public the compensation analysis and to coordinate future pay actions so the assessors and clerks are considered together. Senator Boudreaux urged the sponsor to amend HB12 to explicitly include 2029 language to align the schedules with the upcoming study, which the sponsor said he would consider.
The committee moved HB12 favorable. Several senators said they would work with the sponsor between committee and floor to refine timing and to avoid perceived "picking winners and losers." The sponsor also noted he had filed a concurrent resolution and might convert it to a house resolution to ensure an audit and study are available publicly.
Next steps: HB12 was reported favorable; members signaled intent to refine timing and rely on the study resolution to guide future compensation measures.
