A House floor vote is scheduled today on a proposal to raise the cost of a basic resident hunting and fishing license by a few dollars. Wildlife and Fisheries officials say the increase is needed to offset a 65-million dollar loss in state funding since 2009. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the proposal is having a difficult time passing, because it needs 70 votes from the 105-member House.
Pinosnat says, "The problem is getting two-thirds of the legislative to vote for something."
Pinsonat says a special session is likely coming in which legislators will be asked to pass tax measures to replace expiring revenue, so jacking up the price for a hunting or fishing license is not something legislators are quick to endorse.
Pinosnat expresses, "Legislators are now very reluctant to do anything to cause taxpayers to have to pay more money to the government."
Pinsonat says lawmakers are facing re-election next year, so voting for a fee increase on a hobby many Louisiana residents enjoy is not a good idea for most legislators.
Pinosnat says, "Anything related to passing taxes needing a two-thirds vote is very difficult."