House Bill No. [insert bill number] enacts R.S. 14:71.5, establishing the crime of misappropriation of funds related to utility services. The bill defines the offense as knowingly failing to apply received payments for utility services to the corresponding bills within sixty days or using deception to avoid doing so. Penalties for violations vary based on the amount misappropriated, with harsher sentences for larger amounts, including imprisonment and fines. Additionally, convicted individuals will be required to make full restitution to victims.

The legislation also outlines exceptions where the provisions do not apply, such as when a tenant fails to pay or when delays are due to administrative errors by the utility provider. The intent of the bill is to create a clear criminal offense for the misappropriation of utility funds, targeting intentional nonpayment and fraud rather than isolated errors or disputes. It applies to both individuals and entities, reinforcing accountability in financial dealings related to utility services.

Statutes affected:
HB6 Original: 14:1(B)(5)