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 77 Original 2020 Regular Session DeVillier
Abstract: Provides relative to the reporting requirements of persons released on probation or parole
and authorizes the use of certain technology to comply with reporting requirements.
Present law (R.S. 15:574.4.2) provides that a person who is released on parole may be required to
meet with or report to the parolee's probation and parole officer when ordered to do so by the officer.
Present law (C.Cr.P. Art. 895) requires a defendant on probation to report to the defendant's
probation officer as directed.
Proposed law retains present law and provides that a probation and parole officer who supervises a
person released on probation or parole shall schedule meetings, which are required as a condition
as of the person's release, at such times and locations that take into consideration and accommodate
the work schedule of a person who is employed by another person or entity.
Proposed law further provides that to comply with the provisions of proposed law, in lieu of
requiring the defendant to appear in-person for the required reporting or meetings, the probation and
parole officer may utilize technology portals, including cellular telephone and other electronic
communication devices, that allow simultaneous voice and video communication in real time
between the defendant and the probation officer. Proposed law authorizes the use of such technology
for required reporting or meetings of a person who is self-employed at the discretion of the
defendant's probation officer and in accordance with any rules promulgated by the Dept. of Public
Safety and Corrections.
Proposed law requires the Dept. of Public Safety and Corrections to promulgate rules in accordance
with the present law Administrative Procedure Act to implement the provisions of proposed law,
including rules that set forth minimum standards and guidelines for the authorized technology and
standards for determining the eligibility and suitability of persons to meet their reporting
requirements through the use of such technology.
(Adds R.S. 15:574.14 and C.Cr.P. Art. 895(P))