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 853 Original 2016 Regular Session Robert Johnson
Abstract: Changes the name and governing body of the Avoyelles Parish Port Commission and
adds that the commission shall mange withdrawals of water from Spring Bayou.
Present law creates the Avoyelles Parish Port Commission.
Proposed law changes the name of that commission to the Avoyelles Parish Port and Waterway
Commission.
Present law provides that the Avoyelles Parish Port Commission is composed of seven members who
shall serve without compensation and who shall be appointed as follows:
(1)Four commissioners appointed by the governing authority of the parish of Avoyelles.
(2)Two commissioners shall be appointed by the governing authority of the town of
Simmesport.
(3)One commissioner shall be elected by the appointed commissioners at their initial meeting.
Present law provides that commissioners are appointed for terms of six years.
Proposed law removes present law and instead provides that the commission will be composed of
nine members who shall serve without compensation and who shall be appointed, subject to Senate
confirmation, by the representative representing House District 28 and the senator representing
Senate District 28. Requires a person domiciled in each police jury district be appointed to the
commission.
Present law provides for the rights and duties of the commission.
Proposed law adds that the commission will manage withdrawals of water from Spring Bayou.
Proposed law provides for transitional provisions to complete the transfer of all obligations, rights,
duties, property, and the like from the existing Avoyelles Parish Port Commission to the proposed
Avoyelles Parish Port and Waterway Commission.
(Amends R.S. 34:1801, 1803, 1806, and 1807)