Louisiana House Bill HB197

Louisiana 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/24/20
• Refer: 2/24/20
• Refer: 3/9/20
• Report Pass: 5/20/20
• Engrossed: 5/25/20
• Report Pass: 5/28/20
• Enrolled: 5/29/20
• Vetoed: 6/12/20

Caption

Provides relative to the crime of unauthorized entry of a critical infrastructure (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

Impact

The implications of HB 197 are significant for state laws related to public safety and infrastructure protection. It introduces harsher penalties for individuals found guilty of unauthorized entry into these structures, particularly during a declared state of emergency. Specifically, violators could face increased fines and imprisonment terms, which aim to deter potential threats to public safety and ensure that critical systems remain operational during crises. This aligns with broader efforts to fortify the state’s resilience against natural disasters and other emergencies.

Summary

House Bill 197 aims to amend existing Louisiana law regarding unauthorized entry into critical infrastructure. The bill expands the definition of critical infrastructure to explicitly include water control structures, floodgates, and pump stations, thereby enhancing protections for these vital facilities. By broadening the scope, the legislation seeks to address emerging vulnerabilities that infrastructure may face, particularly in the context of increasing environmental threats and emergencies. The bill's provisions underscore the state's commitment to safeguarding essential services and resources from unauthorized access.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 197 appears to be largely positive among lawmakers and public safety advocates who support the enhanced protection of critical infrastructure. The measures are seen as necessary steps to ensure that vital services are not compromised in emergencies. However, there may be concerns about the balance between security and public access, especially if the penalties could be perceived as overly punitive or infringing on individual rights. Discussions may arise around the bill's enforcement and potential unintended consequences, particularly in relation to emergency services and response efforts.

Contention

Notable points of contention around HB 197 include the potential for implementation challenges related to clearly defining unauthorized entry and determining adequate measures for enforcement. Some critics may raise concerns about the vagueness of terms related to what constitutes a 'state of emergency' and how this could affect lawful access to infrastructure by workers or emergency responders. Additionally, discussions may focus on the effectiveness of increased penalties versus education and community engagement strategies in protecting critical infrastructure.