Louisiana Senate Bill SB70

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/26/19
• Refer: 3/26/19
• Refer: 4/8/19
• Report Pass: 4/23/19
• Engrossed: 4/29/19
• Refer: 4/30/19
• Report Pass: 5/8/19
• Enrolled: 5/28/19
• Chaptered: 5/30/19
• Passed: 5/30/19

Caption

Provides relative to justice of the peace courts and constables in St. Tammany Parish. (gov sig)

Impact

The enactment of SB70 introduces significant changes to local governance in St. Tammany Parish, particularly concerning how property standards and nuisance violations are prosecuted. Local justice of the peace courts will gain concurrent jurisdiction over violations, allowing for a more unified approach to enforcing local ordinances. This modification is poised to improve the efficiency of addressing local property issues and complaints regarding nuisances, enhancing the ability of the justice system to respond to community needs in a timely manner.

Summary

Senate Bill 70, introduced by Senator Donahue, focuses on the governance of justice of the peace courts specifically in St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana. The bill establishes provisions for the jurisdiction and procedure related to property standards and nuisance violations. It allows constables of justice of the peace courts to issue summons and serve subpoenas for such violations, thereby granting them authority to act on local ordinance matters. Importantly, it facilitates a system wherein a constable can act as a prosecutor in specific cases if authorized by the court, thereby streamlining local judicial procedures.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment around SB70 appears to be supportive among local authorities and community leaders who see this bill as a means to enhance the effectiveness of local courts. There is an acknowledgment, however, of potential concerns regarding the expanded powers of constables and how this might affect the legal process pertaining to property violations. Community stakeholders are attentive to ensuring that this increased authority is applied judiciously, reflecting the needs and expectations of local residents.

Contention

While SB70 generally received support, points of contention may arise related to the increased prosecutorial powers given to the constables. Critics might raise concerns about accountability and the potential for overreach in handling nuisance cases. Questions could be raised about the adequacy of local oversight and protections for residents against arbitrary enforcement actions. The bill's focus on local ordinances alongside existing state laws creates a delicate balance that may need further discussion to ensure it serves the best interests of the community.