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 540 Reengrossed 2023 Regular Session Miguez
Abstract: Specifies rights and powers of port and harbor police.
Proposed law establishes for multiple parishes with a population of 68,000 to 73,000 and 57,000 to
57,400, that the commission may appoint, fix salaries of, and pay port and harbor police.
Additionally, provides requirements of appointees.
Proposed law requires appointees furnish a bond upon which suit may be brought for injury or for
failure of appointee to faithfully perform his duties.
Proposed law enables port and harbor police who have completed a course certified by the Council
on Peace Officer Standards and Training to perform law enforcement duties commensurate with
powers of sheriffs.
Proposed law provides for arrestees of the port and harbor police to be delivered to the sheriff of the
parish in which it occurs, and provides that such authority not deprive law enforcement from a parish
with a population of 68,000 to 73,000 or 57,000 to 57,400 from performing their duties.
Proposed law allows for the commission to make rules and regulations relative to the port and harbor
police and provides for modifications to the rules and regulations.
Effective upon signature of governor or lapse of time for gubernatorial action.
(Adds R.S. 34:1603.2)
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
The Committee Amendments Proposed by House Committee on Transportation, Highways and
Public Works to the original bill:
1. Change the parishes affected to both instead of either.
2. Change the parish in which law enforcement cannot be deprived of authority to arrest or
serve warrants to a parish with a population of 68,000 to 73,000 or 57,000 to 57,400.
The House Floor Amendments to the engrossed bill: 1. Add "multiple" to the parishes affected.
2. Require certification by the Council on Peace Officer Standards and Training.