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 763 Original 2022 Regular Session Travis Johnson
Abstract: Provides that the police chief for the town of Ferriday shall be elected rather than
appointed.
Present law (R.S. 33:381(B) and 385.1) requires that the chief of police in municipalities governed
by the Lawrason Act (mayor-board of aldermen form of government) be elected at large and an
elector of the municipality. Further requires a candidate for the office of police chief to be domiciled
in the municipality in which he is seeking office for at least one year (six months if a village)
immediately preceding his candidacy. Permits continued appointment of chief of police where
appointed as of Aug. 1, 1970.
Present law (R.S. 33:381.1) alternatively authorizes appointment of the chief of police by the mayor
with the approval of the board of aldermen when authorized by a majority of the electors of the
municipality. Requires presentation of a petition, signed by at least 25% of such electors, prior to
holding a special election on the question. Prohibits another election on the same question for at
least four years.
Present law (R.S. 33:381.2) also provides a procedure for the election or appointment of a marshal
who is the chief of police in municipalities with a population of 5,000 or less. Authorizes
appointment of the chief of police by the mayor with the approval of the board of aldermen when
authorized by a majority of the electors of the municipality at an election held for that purpose.
Alternatively provides that the electors may authorize that the chief of police be elected. Requires
an ordinance adopted by 2/3 vote of the governing authority to submit the question of the
appointment or election of the chief of police to the electorate. Prohibits another election on the same
question for at least four years.
Proposed law retains present law.
Present law provisions that permit the continuation of an appointed chief if appointed prior to 1970
are applicable to the town of Ferriday.
Proposed law provides instead that the police chief for the town of Ferriday shall be elected at large.
Requires that the election for police chief be held at the same time as a regularly scheduled election
in the town of Ferriday. Requires the appointed chief to remain in office until the elected chief is
sworn in and takes office.
(Adds R.S. 33:381(C)(35))