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)]
HB 516 Engrossed 2016 Regular Session Anders
Abstract: Changes the composition of the Louisiana Aquatic Chelonian Research and Promotion
Board. Repeals referendums associated with the Louisiana Aquatic Chelonian Research and
Promotion Board.
Present law provides for the La. Aquatic Chelonian Research and Promotion Board to be composed
of ten members, nine of whom shall be appointed by the commissioner and confirmed by the Senate
as follows: (1) two licensed farmers from a list of four persons who are members of the La. Turtle
Farmers Association, (2) two licensed farmers from a list of four persons who are members of the
Independent Turtle Farmers of La., (3) two licensed farmers from a list of four persons who are
members of the Pet Turtle Cooperative Association, (4) two licensed farmers from a list of four
persons who are not members of any of the trade organizations listed, and (5) one member with
knowledge of the aquatic chelonian industry shall be appointed at large. Additionally provides for
the commissioner of agriculture to serve as an ex officio member.
Proposed law modifies present law by changing the number of members on the board from ten to
six. Also, requires five members be licensed turtle farmers.
Present law requires the commissioner to appoint one alternate for each appointed member. It further
provides that the alternate appointed to represent a member nominated by a trade group shall be
appointed from the list of four persons submitted by the representative trade group.
Proposed law modifies present law by requiring that each alternate be a licensed turtle farmer.
Present law requires vacancies in the offices of the members and alternates be filled in the same
manner as the original appointments. It further provides that if the position of any member or
alternate appointed from a list of persons submitted by one of the trade groups named becomes
vacant, then the commissioner must call for a list of names from the appropriate trade group; and if
any trade group becomes defunct or does not submit a full list of names to the commissioner within
the time frame required, the commissioner may appoint any licensed turtle farmer not already
appointed to the board to fill a vacancy.
Proposed law removes the present law requirement.
Present law provides for referendums to be called by the commissioner to vote on any assessments
that the board may want to levy. Proposed law repeals present law referendums requirements associated with the board.
(Amends R.S. 3:559.23(B), (D), and (F); Repeals R.S. 3:559.26)