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 amendments include the definition of "governing authority" to encompass both Lincoln Parish and the City of Ruston, and the specification that either entity may acquire property needed for public projects such as streets, drainage, and utilities through expropriation if amicable acquisition fails.

Additionally, the bill outlines procedural requirements for expropriation, including the need for a petition to be filed in the Third Judicial District Court, the necessity of a resolution from the governing authority, and the conditions under which title to the property vests in the parish or city. It also establishes the timeline for defendants to respond regarding compensation claims following 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)