Louisiana Senate Bill SB650

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10

Caption

Provides that if certain district attorney voluntarily leaves office prior to the end of the term, the first assistant will not be an eligible candidate in the next election for district attorney. (8/15/10)

Impact

By enacting SB650, the eligibility criteria for candidates to succeed a district attorney vacancy will shift, thereby potentially leading to a traditional election timeline that limits the pool of candidates. The bill repeals certain provisions that allowed for interim district attorneys to be assigned from other districts and modifies election protocols to enable more direct elections by the public without incumbents returning to seek office immediately after they have held the position, ensuring that new candidates are fairly introduced.

Summary

Senate Bill No. 650 addresses the protocol surrounding vacancies in the office of the district attorney within the Sixteenth Judicial District of Louisiana. The bill stipulates that if a district attorney voluntarily resigns before the end of their term, the first assistant who had assumed the duties of the office will not be eligible to run for the position filling that vacancy in the next election. This amendment aims to clarify and streamline the election process for such offices, ensuring that there is a clear distinction of candidates beyond those who may have been acting in the role temporarily.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB650 appears to be largely neutral, focusing more on procedural clarification rather than sparked public or political debate. Legislators who support the bill view it as a necessary adjustment to keep the judiciary electoral system robust and contemporary, while those with reservations emphasize the importance of maintaining clarity in leadership transitions, albeit there has not been significant public outcry against the changes proposed.

Contention

One notable point of contention is the bill's impact on governance transparency and accountability. By disallowing an acting district attorney from running for their own position, there is a concern among some stakeholders regarding the exclusion of candidates who may already possess the necessary experience and knowledge of their district's unique challenges. Critics argue that this could inadvertently limit the choices available to voters and could prevent capable individuals from continuing in their roles, ultimately affecting the continuity and effectiveness of district governance.