DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of
the legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of
the law or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
Carter HB No. 373
Abstract: Shortens the maximum length of regular sessions in even-numbered years and limits
to 10 the number of matters that are not local or special that a member of the legislature
may introduce during such sessions.
Present constitution provides separately for regular sessions in odd-numbered and even-
numbered years. Provides that regular sessions in odd-numbered years convene at noon on the
second Mon. in April and last for no more than 45 legislative days in a period of 60 calendar
days. Provides related deadlines for introducing and considering certain matters. Limits the
introduction of matters to certain specified fiscal matters; provides exceptions for local and
special matters and for up to five general matters that are prefiled.
Proposed constitutional amendment retains present constitution.
Present constitution provides that regular sessions in even-numbered years are general in nature.
Prohibits the introduction of certain specified measures involving certain taxes. Proposed
constitutional amendment retains present constitution.
Present constitution provides that regular sessions in even-numbered years convene at noon on
the second Mon. in March and last for no more than 60 legislative days in a period of 85 calendar
days. Provides for related deadlines for introducing and considering certain matters.
Proposed constitutional amendment shortens the maximum length of regular sessions in
even-numbered years from 60 legislative days in 85 calendar days to 45 legislative days in 60
calendar days, makes related changes to deadlines for introducing and considering certain matters
in those sessions, and moves the date on which the session convenes, all to be the same as regular
sessions in odd-numbered years. Additionally, limits to ten the number of matters that are not
local or special that a member of the legislature may introduce during a regular session in an
even-numbered year.
Provides for submission of the proposed amendment to the voters at the statewide election to be
held November 4, 2014.
(Amends Art. III, §2(A)(3) and (4); Adds Art. III, §2(A)(5))