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 638 Original 2020 Regular Session Landry
Abstract: Increases the maximum penalty that may be imposed for a violation of a parish or
municipal ordinance.
Present law provides that the maximum penalty that may be imposed for the violation of a parish
ordinance is a $500 fine and imprisonment of 30 days in parish jail. Provides that the maximum
length of imprisonment in Jefferson Parish is six months and authorizes higher penalties for
violations of certain ordinances in East Baton Rouge and Jefferson parishes. Authorizes imposition
of civil penalties for some violations of waste treatment ordinances. Additionally authorizes
imposition of up to100 hours of community service, in addition to or in lieu of penalties authorized
by existing law, for a violation of a parish ordinance.
Proposed law instead provides that the maximum penalty that may be imposed for the violation of
any parish ordinance is a fine of $5000. Retains the 30 day imprisonment provision and the authority
granted to the parish to impose community service or additional civil penalties.
Present law provides that the maximum penalty which may be imposed for the violation of any
ordinance enacted by the governing authority of the city of New Orleans is a fine of $500 for a first
offense violation and $1,000 for the second or any subsequent offense. Provides that the maximum
penalties do not apply to penalties imposed for non-moving or parking violations or other traffic
violations, including those captured by an automated traffic enforcement system.
Proposed law repeals present law and provides instead that the maximum penalty which may be
imposed for the violation of municipal ordinances statewide is a fine of $5000. Provides that the
maximum penalties do not apply to penalties imposed for non-moving or parking violations or other
traffic violations, including those captured by an automated traffic enforcement system.
Effective July 1, 2020.
(Amends R.S. 33:1243; Adds R.S. 33:1376; Repeals R.S.33:1375)