Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB527

Introduced
3/29/10  
Refer
3/29/10  
Report Pass
4/22/10  
Engrossed
5/4/10  
Refer
5/5/10  
Report Pass
6/10/10  
Enrolled
6/21/10  
Chaptered
6/29/10  

Caption

Provides for the creation of the La. Historic Cemetery Preservation Act (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD See Note)

Impact

The introduction of HB 527 signals a significant step towards enhancing the legal framework for cemetery preservation in Louisiana. By providing specific protections for historic cemeteries not already under the jurisdiction of the Louisiana Cemetery Board, it addresses the gap in laws that failed to effectively safeguard these important cultural and historical resources. The new rules mandate civil proceedings for violations, emphasizing accountability for any damage or disturbance to these sacred spaces, and establishing penalties for non-compliance.

Summary

House Bill 527, known as the Louisiana Historic Cemetery Preservation Act, establishes a dedicated program aimed at preserving and protecting historic cemeteries and isolated graves within the state of Louisiana. This act creates the Louisiana Historic Cemetery Trust Fund, which is intended to gather funds from grants, donations, and legislative appropriations for the maintenance and restoration of these historic sites. The Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism is designated to administer this program, ensuring that proper management and oversight are maintained.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill is generally favorable among preservationists and cultural heritage advocates, who view it as a vital tool for protecting the state's rich historical sites. However, there may be concerns from some entities regarding the potential restrictions the law places on property management or development in areas with historic graves, suggesting a need for balance between preservation efforts and property rights.

Contention

The bill explicitly outlines unlawful acts such as disturbing historic cemeteries and the issuance of permits for disinterment, which could lead to contention over interpretations of what constitutes a 'disturbance.' The penalties defined in the bill, ranging from fines to potential imprisonment, might also raise concerns among those who may inadvertently infringe upon the regulations, highlighting the importance of effective communication and education regarding the new requirements.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HB292

Regulates the operation of abandoned cemeteries (EN NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)

LA HB139

Provides relative to access to enclosed cemeteries (OR SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)

LA HB451

Provides relative to boards, commissions, authorities, districts, and like entities (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)

LA HB1226

Provides for the abolition of certain boards and commissions (EN SEE FISC NOTE SG EX See Note)

LA HB584

Provides for the abolition of certain boards and commissions (OR SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)

LA HB593

Provides relative to cemeteries (EN INCREASE SG EX See Note)

LA HB979

Provides for the creation of the Louisiana Transportation Infrastructure Bank (REF SEE FISC NOTE SD RV See Note)

LA SB590

Provides relative to the elimination of certain special funds in the state treasury. (7/1/12) (EN +$66,950 GF RV See Note)

LA HB781

Provides for the creation of a pilot program to rehabilitate and support offenders (EN SEE FISC NOTE OF EX See Note)

LA HB762

Creates and provides for the Louisiana Outdoors Forever Program (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD EX See Note)

Similar Bills

LA HB663

Makes various changes to the provisions governing cemetery authorities and merchandise trust funds (EN INCREASE SG EX See Note)

LA HB656

Provides relative to the authority to expropriate (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)

LA HB771

Provides with respect to cemeteries

LA HB645

Provides relative to emergency and disaster management

LA SCR111

Requests DHH and other entities take all appropriate action to identify and recognize persons interred in Gilbert Memorial Park.

LA HB448

Authorizes the Louisiana Cemetery Board to impose fines for certain violations

LA SB590

Provides relative to the elimination of certain special funds in the state treasury. (7/1/12) (EN +$66,950 GF RV See Note)

LA HB176

Provides relative to withdrawals from cemetery merchandise trust funds