Louisiana Senate Bill SB129

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/19
• Refer: 3/27/19
• Refer: 4/8/19
• Report Pass: 5/13/19
• Engrossed: 5/16/19
• Refer: 5/20/19
• Report Pass: 5/22/19
• Enrolled: 6/1/19
• Chaptered: 6/5/19
• Passed: 6/5/19

Caption

Requires a local municipal or parish authority to allow certain pedestrians to stand in a roadway to solicit charitable contributions under certain circumstances. (8/1/19)

Impact

The amendment enables local municipalities or parishes to regulate how these charitable solicitations are conducted, ensuring that they can enforce measures that protect public safety while allowing for fundraising activities. This balance between enabling charitable work and safeguarding public order may change how such solicitations are approached in local jurisdictions. Notably, municipalities will need to revise any existing regulations that contradict this new allowance within 60 days of the bill's effective date, promoting consistency across local policies regarding charitable solicitations.

Summary

Senate Bill 129, known as the Rivers Lacrouts Charitable Solicitation Act, amends existing pedestrian solicitation laws to permit designated individuals from charitable organizations to solicit contributions on public roadways under certain conditions. This bill specifically allows members of professional firefighters associations, police officers, or other public safety officers to solicit while wearing high-visibility safety apparel, maintaining liability insurance, and doing so only during daylight hours. It aims to provide a legal framework for such solicitation while ensuring public safety is considered.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 129 appears to be generally favorable among supporters who advocate for nonprofit organizations and charitable efforts. Proponents argue that the bill will enable organizations to raise necessary funds more effectively. However, there could be concerns from local authorities about potential traffic disruptions and the safety of solicitors and drivers alike, indicating a need for careful monitoring of the new provisions implementation to address any emerging issues.

Contention

While the bill facilitates charitable solicitation, it does raise questions regarding the impact on existing local laws and the responsibility of municipalities to adapt to the new requirements. Some local officials may see this as an encroachment on their authority to regulate public spaces. The potential for civil penalties for non-compliance also raises issues about enforcement and accountability, which may lead to conflicts between local and state regulations.