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 498 Engrossed 2022 Regular Session Green
Abstract: Changes the timing and duration of regular legislative sessions; regular sessions would
begin on Jan. 5th and end by July 1st each year.
Present constitution provides that regular sessions convening in even-numbered years convene at
noon on the second Monday in March and last not more than 60 legislative days during 85 calendar
days. Provides that regular sessions convening in odd-numbered years convene at noon on the
second Monday in April and last not more than 45 legislative days during 60 calendar days.
Proposed constitutional amendment provides that all regular sessions, regardless of year, begin on
Jan. 5th and end before July 1st and are general in nature. Removes provision providing for limited
sessions.
Present constitution provides that the deadline for introducing new matters in a regular session is the
23rd calendar day in an even-numbered year and the 10th calendar day in an odd-numbered year.
Proposed constitutional amendment removes the deadline for introducing new matters.
Present constitution provides that laws enacted during a regular session become effective on Aug.
1st unless the Act provides otherwise.
Proposed constitutional amendment changes the normal effective date of laws enacted in a regular
session to Sept. 1.
Present constitution provides that members of the legislature take office on the same day as the
governor and other statewide elected officials.
Proposed constitutional amendment provides that members of the legislature take office on Jan. 5th.
Provides for submission of the proposed amendment to the voters at the statewide election to be held
Nov. 8, 2022.
(Amends Const. Art. III, §2(A)(1) and (3) and (D), 5(A), and 19; Repeals Const. Art. III, §2(A)(4))