Louisiana House Bill HB218

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/19
• Refer: 3/27/19
• Refer: 4/8/19
• Report Pass: 5/2/19
• Engrossed: 5/21/19
• Refer: 5/22/19
• Report Pass: 5/31/19
• Enrolled: 6/6/19
• Chaptered: 6/20/19
• Passed: 6/20/19

Caption

Provides relative to Baton Rouge City Court probation officers (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)

Impact

The enactment of HB 218 results in significant changes to state law regarding probation services within Baton Rouge. It officially integrates probation officers into the law enforcement framework, which empowers them with various law enforcement duties previously reserved for sheriffs or constables. The recognition of probation officers as law enforcement agents also aligns their training and responsibilities with those of other certified peace officers in Louisiana, thereby potentially enhancing the operational efficiency of the Baton Rouge City Court’s probation division.

Summary

House Bill 218 aims to provide legislative recognition and authority to probation officers at the Baton Rouge City Court by enacting R.S. 13:2071.1. This bill allows the court to commission its own probation officers, who will be recognized as a law enforcement agency. These officers will have specific powers and responsibilities including making arrests, serving notices and orders, and conducting home visits and job verifications. Importantly, it establishes these officers as Louisiana peace officers following their completion of certified training programs.

Sentiment

The response to HB 218 appears to be overwhelmingly positive among members of the Louisiana legislature, as indicated by the 89-0 vote in favor of the conference report on June 6, 2019. Legislators likely see this bill as a necessary step to optimize the functioning of the probation system within Baton Rouge, providing greater authority and accountability to probation officers, which enhances public safety.

Contention

A potential point of contention surrounding this bill could stem from the expanded roles assigned to probation officers, as their inclusion as law enforcement agents may raise questions regarding the extent of their powers compared to traditional law enforcement officials. Stakeholders might engage in discussions about the implications of this increased authority, particularly concerning community safety, trainings, and the appropriate usage of the powers granted under this new legislation.