Bill No.:         HB0047                                             Drafter: LGC

LSO No.:       14LSO-0154                                     Effective Date: Immediate

Enrolled Act No.:    HEA0037

Chapter No.:                        CH0066

Prime Sponsor:       Representative Berger

Catch Title:              Government royalty revenues-definition.

Subject:                     Essential public service definition.

Summary/Major Elements:

· Under current law, the state loan and investment board is authorized to make grants and loans to local governments for providing an essential public service.

· This bill provides a definition of essential public service to include a public service facility owned by the applicant and available for use by the general public including:  water and sewer projects, storm drainage projects, street and road projects, solid waste disposal projects, local natural gas utility pipelines and distribution systems, acquisition of emergency vehicles, public administration buildings, health care facilities, senior citizens centers, jail and detention facilities, facilities needed to provide services to the disabled, costs to purchase medical equipment that generates revenue sufficient to service a Joint Powers Act loan, as determined by the board, and similar facilities as authorized by the board.

· “Essential public service” also means refinancing outstanding loans extended to the applicant.

· To be considered an “essential public service” under this provision, local natural gas utility pipelines and distribution centers and similar facilities shall be located in rural and unserved areas.