The original instrument and the following digest, which constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument, were prepared by Michael Bell.
DIGEST
SB 201 Original 2019 Regular Session Mizell
Present law establishes the Washington Parish Reservoir District. Provides that the district shall be
a political subdivision of the state and shall be comprised of the area of Washington Parish.
Present law provides that the district's purpose is to develop the wealth and natural resources of the
district by conserving soil and water for agricultural, recreational, commercial, industrial, and
sanitary purposes. Provides that the district shall create and maintain lakes and reservoirs and engage
in economic development.
Present law provides that the district shall constitute a body corporate and shall have the authority
to sue and be sued, buy and sell, levy taxes, negotiate and execute contracts, and incur debt and issue
negotiable bonds.
Present law provides that the district shall be exempt from taxation. Authorizes the district to
cooperate and contract with the federal or state government or any department or agency for the
construction, operation, and maintenance of facilities.
Present law provides that the district is governed by a board of 11 commissioners, appointed by the
governor subject to Senate confirmation, who shall be qualified electors of the state residing within
Washington Parish.
Present law prohibits any person or corporation from erecting any dam or reservoir upon any
watercourse which will affect the district without the approval of the board of commissioners.
Provides for penalties of not less than $500 nor more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more than
60 days, or both.
Proposed law repeals present law.
Proposed law authorizes the donation of any immovable or movable property and any funds to the
Secretary of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism in support of the Bogue Chitto State
Park for expanding recreation.
Proposed law provides that the Secretary of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism
conduct a town hall meeting no later than August 1, 2020, in Washington Parish with the legislative
delegation for Washington Parish to determine what are the best options for expansion of recreation
for Washington Parish at Bogue Chitto State Park.
Effective August 1, 2019. (Repeals R.S. 36:509(S) and R.S. 38:3087.191-3087.206)