House Bill No. 141, introduced by Representative Bamburg, proposes the abolition of the office of police chief and the police department in the village of Martin, Louisiana. The bill allows the board of aldermen, upon the mayor's recommendation, to abolish the police chief position, with the stipulation that such action cannot take effect until the current chief's term ends or a vacancy occurs, whichever comes first. If the office is temporarily filled at the time of the decision, the abolition will take effect as specified by ordinance.
Additionally, if both the office of police chief and the police department are abolished, the mayor and board of aldermen are authorized to contract with law enforcement entities within Red River Parish for police services. This bill aims to provide flexibility in law enforcement management for the village of Martin while ensuring that public safety services remain available through alternative arrangements. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated time for gubernatorial action.