The bill amends R.S. 13:4163 to create new provisions that allow members of the legislature and legislative employees to request continuances or extensions in court or administrative proceedings when their participation is necessary during legislative sessions or constitutional conventions. It establishes a rebuttable presumption that motions for continuance filed within certain timeframes are appropriate and should be granted within seventy-two hours. The bill also details the procedures for filing these motions, which include the requirement for an affidavit from legislative employees and the option to file motions electronically.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that the grounds for seeking a continuance apply to various types of proceedings, with exceptions for criminal cases involving the death penalty. It mandates that motions be filed at no cost and grants the court authority to oversee disciplinary actions against members or employees whose motions are denied. The bill also specifies that a showing, supported by an affidavit, is necessary to demonstrate the need for a continuance due to attendance at legislative functions. It outlines certain proceedings, such as temporary restraining orders and child custody cases, to which these provisions do not apply. The act will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the expiration of the time for bills to become law without signature, and it will apply retroactively to actions filed or pending on or after October 25, 2024.

Statutes affected:
SB9 Original:
SB9 Engrossed:
SB9 Reengrossed:
SB9 Enrolled:
SB9 Act :