This bill amends Part V of Chapter 2 of Title 18 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes, specifically R.S. 18:49.1, to rename the "Elections Compliance Unit" to the "Division of Election Integrity." The bill outlines the powers and duties of this new division, which include initiating independent inquiries and investigations into allegations of election irregularities, responding to complaints from election officials or the public, and reviewing reports of irregularities to determine if further investigation is warranted.

Additionally, the division is granted the authority to issue subpoenas for records from registrars of voters and to receive sworn statements. It allows employees of the division to enter polling places during early voting or on election day to check operations or investigate potential violations of the Louisiana Election Code. If any criminal law violations are discovered during investigations, the division is required to refer the findings to the appropriate prosecutorial agency for further action.

Statutes affected:
HB285 Original:
HB285 Engrossed:
HB285 Enrolled:
HB285 Act :