This bill amends and reenacts R.S. 14:61(B)(1), (C), and (D), while also enacting R.S. 14:61(E), to enhance the legal framework surrounding unauthorized entry into critical infrastructure in Louisiana. The definition of "critical infrastructure" is expanded to include various facilities such as chemical manufacturing plants, refineries, electrical power generation sites, and water treatment facilities, as well as newly added categories like water control structures and communications facilities. The bill also corrects the term "liquified" to "liquefied" in reference to natural gas.

In terms of penalties, the bill establishes stricter sentencing for repeat offenders, increasing the potential imprisonment for second or subsequent violations to a range of six months to ten years, along with fines between $500 and $4,000. Additionally, it imposes harsher penalties for unauthorized entry during a declared state of emergency, with fines up to $5,000 and imprisonment of three to fifteen years. The bill also clarifies that certain lawful activities, such as peaceful demonstrations and recreational activities near pipelines, are exempt from this law, ensuring that the rights of individuals are protected while maintaining the integrity of critical infrastructure.

Statutes affected:
HB507 Original: 14:61(B)
HB507 Engrossed: 14:61(B)
HB507 Enrolled: 14:61(B)(1)
HB507 Act : 14:61(B)(1)