This bill amends various sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes to authorize Lincoln Parish to expropriate property through a declaration of taking, alongside the existing authority of the City of Ruston. Key changes include the addition of "Lincoln Parish" in the headings and definitions, as well as in the authority to expropriate property for public projects such as streets, drainage, and utilities. The bill specifies that the governing authority can acquire property prior to a court judgment on compensation, and it outlines the necessary contents of a petition for expropriation, including resolutions and certifications from engineers.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that title to the expropriated property will vest in Lincoln Parish or the City of Ruston upon a final court order, allowing them to take possession of the property. It also establishes a timeline for defendants to file for compensation, requiring them to respond within one year of being notified by the governing authority about the acceptance of the construction project related to the expropriation. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the expropriation process for public projects in Lincoln Parish and Ruston.

Statutes affected:
HB98 Original: 19:135(2), 19:1(A), 19:2(1), 19:7(1)
HB98 Engrossed: 19:135(2), 19:1(A), 19:2(1), 19:7(1)
HB98 Enrolled: 19:135(2), 19:1(A), 19:2(1), 19:7(1)
HB98 Act 484: 19:135(2), 19:1(A), 19:2(1), 19:7(1)