House Bill No. 97 proposes the establishment of the Railroad Avenue Historic Cultural Economic District in the city of Jeanerette, Louisiana. This new district will serve as a political subdivision aimed at fostering cooperative economic and community development among the district, the city, the state, and property owners within the district. The bill outlines the district's boundaries, governance structure, and the powers and duties of the district, which include enhancing property development, cultural enrichment, and improving infrastructure. The district will be governed by a board of commissioners consisting of seven voting members and one nonvoting member, with specific appointments from local organizations and government representatives.

Additionally, the bill grants the district the authority to levy a sales and use tax of up to 1%, contingent upon voter approval, and to issue revenue bonds backed by tax increments from projects within the district. The proposed law specifies that tax increments can only be utilized with the consent of the relevant local governmental subdivisions and following a majority vote from qualified electors. The district is designed to dissolve one year after all financial obligations are met, ensuring a structured approach to economic development while providing mechanisms for community involvement and oversight.