The bill, known as "The Maggie Grace Act," amends several sections of Louisiana law regarding the Board of Pardons and the committee on parole, specifically focusing on the confidentiality of certain hearings and the rights of victims. It establishes the crime of unlawful posting of recordings from these hearings, making it illegal to knowingly obtain and share audio, written, or visual recordings of testimony from victims or their families during executive sessions. Exceptions are provided for specific individuals, including the defendant and their legal representatives, as well as the victim or their next of kin. Violators of this provision may face fines or imprisonment.

Additionally, the bill allows victims or their families to present testimony in executive sessions at their request and ensures that such testimony remains confidential and is not subject to public records laws. The bill outlines procedures for disclosing this testimony under certain conditions, including court authorization. It also amends existing laws to clarify the circumstances under which executive sessions can be held and reinforces the confidentiality of testimony presented during these sessions. Overall, the act aims to enhance the protection of victims' rights while balancing the need for transparency in the parole process.

Statutes affected:
HB49 Original: 44:1(B)(8)
HB49 Engrossed: 15:4(B)(2), 15:2(D)(9), 42:17(A)(10), 44:1(B)(8)
HB49 Reengrossed: 15:4(B)(2), 15:2(D)(9), 42:17(A)(10), 44:1(B)(8)
HB49 Enrolled: 15:4(B)(2), 15:2(D)(9), 42:17(A)(10), 44:1(B)(8)
HB49 Act : 15:4(B)(2), 15:2(D)(9), 42:17(A)(10), 44:1(B)(8)