Senate Resolution No. by Senator Barrow establishes the Task Force on Technology and Research Parks to evaluate the effectiveness of technology and research parks in Louisiana. The resolution highlights the state's historical vision for these parks, which were created in the early 1980s to support technology-based businesses through various stages of development. It notes the existence of several research parks across Louisiana, such as the Louisiana Technology Park and the University of New Orleans Research and Technology Park, and emphasizes the need for a comprehensive assessment of their impact on the state's economy and business landscape.
The task force will be responsible for studying various metrics, including the number of businesses utilizing the parks, the funds invested, and the operational status of these businesses. It will consist of members from various educational and economic development organizations, with the Senate president serving as chairman. The task force is required to submit a written report with recommendations to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection and International Affairs by March 1, 2026. The resolution also outlines operational procedures, including compliance with open meeting laws and the conditions for the task force's termination.