House Bill No. by Representative Jackson proposes the creation of a new crime, "misappropriation of funds in connection with the payment of utility services." This legislation amends existing law by adding R.S. 14:71.5, which stipulates that individuals who receive payments for utility services must apply those funds appropriately to satisfy the owed amounts. Violators of this provision could face imprisonment for up to ten years, fines of up to $100,000, or both. Additionally, convicted individuals would be required to make full restitution to victims and could have property used in the commission of the crime subject to seizure and forfeiture.

The bill also incorporates the new crime into the list of offenses that constitute "racketeering activity" under R.S. 15:1352, thereby expanding the scope of racketeering laws. The amendments to R.S. 14:230.1 include the addition of misappropriation of funds related to utility services as an offense eligible for seizure and forfeiture. The legislation aims to enhance accountability in the management of utility payments and provide a legal framework for addressing financial misconduct in this area.

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