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 437 Original 2020 Regular Session Dustin Miller
Abstract: Establishes the La. Commission on Security for the Faith Community, provides for the
establishment of a security grant program, and establishes the Security Grant Program Fund.
Proposed law establishes the La. Commission on Security for the Faith Community within the
Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) to study and make
recommendations on the security needs of the faith community in La.
Proposed law provides for the purpose, membership, duties, and authority of the commission,
including recommendations on the establishment, administration, and funding of a grant program
for eligible entities to apply for security grants covering security personnel, security training, facility
hardening, and other necessary security measures.
Proposed law requires the commission to issue a report, at least annually, to GOHSEP of its findings
and recommendations with respect to the security status and needs of the faith community in La.
Proposed law directs GOHSEP to establish a grant program through which eligible nonprofit
organizations can apply for and receive grants to defray the cost of security enhancements or
measures including safety and security planning, equipment, training, and technology; threat and
awareness response training; upgrades to existing structures that enhance safety and security;
vulnerability and threat assessments; and security personnel.
Proposed law establishes the Security Grant Program Fund, administered by GOHSEP, for the
purposes of the security grant program established pursuant to proposed law.
Proposed law requires GOHSEP to adopt any regulations or rules, pursuant to the Administrative
Procedure Act, necessary to implement the security grant program and to administer the Security
Grant Program Fund.
(Adds R.S. 29:726.5 and 726.5.1)