House Bill No. 14, introduced by Representatives Cox and Villio, seeks to amend Louisiana's homicide laws by adding "cruelty to persons with infirmities" as a predicate felony for both first and second degree murder. The bill specifically amends R.S. 14:30(A)(1) and 30.1(A)(2) to include this new category of crime alongside existing felonies such as aggravated kidnapping, armed robbery, and various forms of rape. The inclusion of cruelty to persons with infirmities aims to enhance the legal consequences for offenders who commit homicide in conjunction with this type of cruelty.

The proposed changes will ensure that if a homicide occurs during the commission of cruelty to persons with infirmities, it can be classified as either first or second degree murder, depending on the circumstances. This legislative move reflects a commitment to protecting vulnerable populations and holding offenders accountable for acts of violence against individuals with infirmities. The bill is currently in the engrossed stage, indicating it has passed through initial legislative processes and is being prepared for further consideration.

Statutes affected:
HB14 Original: 14:30(A)(1), 14:1(A)(2)
HB14 Engrossed: 14:30(A)(1), 14:1(A)(2)