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 363 Engrossed 2021 Regular Session Tarver
Abstract: Modifies provisions governing the Protect Wild Dolphins license plate by changing the
entity to be consulted for design and the entity designated to receive the annual royalty fee,
removing language limiting use of the fee, and modifying the purpose of the license plate.
Present law establishes a "Protect Wild Dolphins" special prestige license plate and provides that the
secretary of the Dept. of Public Safety and Corrections must design the plate in consultation with
EarthEcho International, Inc. Proposed law changes the entity to be consulted in the design of the
plate from EarthEcho International, Inc. to Protect Wild Dolphins Alliance, Inc.
Present law requires the department to forward the annual royalty fee collected from such plates to
EarthEcho International, Inc., for use of the group's logo. Proposed law changes the entity receiving
the annual royalty fee from EarthEcho International, Inc. to Protect Wild Dolphins Alliance, Inc.,
and removes language indicating that the fee is forwarded for use of the group's logo.
Present law requires that the royalty fees be used to support scientific research, conservation, and
educational programs that serve to restore and protect the ocean environment and freshwater systems
and to protect wild dolphins by EarthEcho International, Inc., and that 25% of the funds may be used
for promotion and marketing of the plate and cause. Proposed law removes the requirement that the
research, conservation, and educational programs be provided by EarthEcho International, Inc., but
otherwise retains present law.
Present law provides that the purpose of the license plate is to recognize and support contributions
to environmental protection by EarthEcho International, Inc. Proposed law deletes present law.
Effective upon signature of governor or lapse of time for gubernatorial action.
(Amends R.S. 47:463.139(C) and (E) through (G))
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
The Committee Amendments Proposed by House Committee on Transportation, Highways and
Public Works to the original bill:
1. Make technical changes.