The bill amends R.S. 13:4163 to create new provisions for legislative members and employees seeking continuances or extensions in court or administrative proceedings during legislative sessions or constitutional conventions. It requires that motions for continuance be filed no later than five days before the relevant proceeding and must include an affidavit from the presiding officer or clerk confirming the necessity of the member's attendance. A rebuttable presumption is established that motions filed within this timeframe are valid and should be granted within seventy-two hours. The bill also removes the term "ex parte motion" and specifies that if a motion is denied or not acted upon in time, the member or employee can appeal at no cost.

Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions under which a continuance may be granted, emphasizing that a showing of necessity for attendance at a legislative function can constitute good cause. It also mandates that if the attorney seeking the continuance is a legislator, they must notify the judicial administrator for the Louisiana Supreme Court simultaneously with the court filing. Certain exceptions are noted where these provisions do not apply, such as in cases involving temporary restraining orders and child custody. The act will take effect upon the governor's signature and will apply retroactively to actions filed or pending after October 25, 2024.

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