This bill amends the existing law on criminal blighting of property in Louisiana, specifically R.S. 14:107.3. It modifies the definitions and penalties associated with the offense, including changes to the fines and the conditions under which offenders may be imprisoned. Notably, the bill establishes a tiered penalty system based on the number of convictions, with fines increasing from $500 for a first offense to $2,000 for a third or subsequent offense. Additionally, it allows for the possibility of imprisonment for up to one year for repeat offenders, while also stipulating that imprisonment cannot be imposed if the property in question is a single-family residence occupied by the defendant at the time of the violation. The bill also introduces a new provision allowing prosecution for blight to occur concurrently with reviews and appeals of blight declarations.

Furthermore, the bill repeals a section of the previous law (R.S. 14:107.3(D)) and adds criminal blighting of property to the definition of racketeering activity under R.S. 15:1352(A)(70). This inclusion broadens the scope of crimes considered as racketeering, thereby enhancing the legal framework for addressing property blight in Louisiana. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen enforcement against property blight while providing a structured approach to penalties and appeals.

Statutes affected:
HB370 Original: 14:3(B), 14:3(D)
HB370 Engrossed: 14:3(B), 14:3(D)
HB370 Reengrossed: 14:3(B), 14:3(D)
HB370 Enrolled: 14:3(B), 14:3(D)
HB370 Act 85: 14:3(B), 14:3(D)