RÉSUMÉ DIGEST
ACT 9 (HB 516) 2016 Regular Session Anders
Existing law provides for the La. Aquatic Chelonian Research and Promotion Board to be
composed of 10 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
nominated by the La. Turtle Farmers Association, (2) two licensed farmers from a list of four
persons nominated by the Independent Turtle Farmers of La., (3) two licensed farmers from
a list of four persons nominated by 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 in existing law, and (5) one member with knowledge of the aquatic chelonian industry
appointed at large. Additionally provides for the commissioner of agriculture to serve as an
ex officio member.
New law modifies existing law by changing the number of members on the board from 10
to six. Also, requires five members be licensed turtle farmers.
Existing law requires the commissioner to appoint one alternate for each appointed member.
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.
New law modifies existing law by requiring that each alternate be a licensed turtle farmer.
Existing law requires vacancies in the offices of the members and alternates be filled in the
same manner as the original appointments.
Prior law further provided 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.
New law removes the prior law.
Prior law provided for referendums to be called by the commissioner to vote on any
assessments that the board may want to levy.
New law repeals prior law referendums requirements associated with the board.
Effective August 1, 2016.
(Amends R.S. 3:559.23(B), (D), and (F), 559.25(A)(6), and 559.27(A); Repeals R.S.
3:559.23(C) and 559.26)