The original instrument and the following digest, which constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument, were prepared by James Benton.
DIGEST
SB 413 Original 2022 Regular Session Fred Mills
Present law provides that the officers of every municipality governed by the provisions of the
Lawrason Act (mayor-board of aldermen form of government) will be a mayor, alderman, a chief
of police, a tax collector, a clerk, and a street commissioner. Generally provides for election, at large,
of the police chief. Provides for appointment of a police chief in certain specified municipalities.
Present law alternatively provides that the office of police chief will be filled by mayoral
appointment with approval of the board of aldermen if a majority of the municipal electors approve
the change. Provides for an election on the question only upon a petition directed to the board of
aldermen and signed by at least 25% of such electors.
Proposed law provides an exception for the police chief in the city of Breaux Bridge. Provides that
such police chief will be appointed by the mayor with the approval of the city council by majority
vote. Provides for initial appointment upon expiration of the current term or other vacancy if there
is an elected chief in office on the effective date of proposed law; provides for immediate
appointment if not. Provides that the police chief's term will be concurrent with that of the mayor
and council members.
Proposed law provides that the city council, upon recommendation of the mayor, will establish the
salary of the office and will, by ordinance, establish the qualifications, duties, and responsibilities
of the office and that the chief will report directly to the mayor.
Effective August 1, 2022.
(Adds R.S. 33:381(C)(35))