House Bill No. by Representative Mike Johnson proposes the enactment of R.S. 14:109, which establishes the crime of unlawfully approaching a law enforcement officer who is engaged in their official duties. The bill defines the offense as knowingly or intentionally coming within twenty-five feet of a law enforcement officer after being ordered to stop or retreat. It specifies that the term "law enforcement officer" includes various officials such as police officers, sheriffs, correctional officers, and wildlife enforcement agents, among others.
The bill outlines penalties for violating this provision, which may include a fine of up to five hundred dollars, imprisonment for a maximum of sixty days, or both. This legislation aims to enhance the safety of law enforcement personnel by prohibiting close approaches during their official duties, thereby ensuring that officers can perform their responsibilities without undue interference or potential threats.