The bill amends R.S. 34:1603.2 regarding the authority and structure of port and harbor police in Louisiana. It removes specific population-based provisions that previously defined the eligibility of port districts to appoint police officers. Instead, it grants the board of commissioners for any port district the discretion to appoint and manage port and harbor police without being restricted by population metrics. This change aims to streamline the process of establishing police forces in port districts, allowing for greater flexibility in staffing and management.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the responsibilities of the port and harbor police regarding arrests and the handling of warrants. It specifies that any arrests made by these officers must be reported to the criminal sheriff of the relevant parish, while ensuring that local sheriffs retain their authority to make arrests and serve warrants. The board is also tasked with adopting and modifying rules for the conduct and management of the port and harbor police, further enhancing their operational framework. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for bills to become law without a signature.

Statutes affected:
SB102 Original: 34:2(A)
SB102 Engrossed: 34:2(A)
SB102 Enrolled: 34:2(A)
SB102 Act 292: 34:2(A)