This bill amends R.S. 56:1688(C) and enacts R.S. 56:1688.1 to enhance the authority of state park wardens in Louisiana. It grants state park wardens the specific authority to enforce litter laws statewide and allows them to issue citations for littering either by mail or in person. Additionally, the bill establishes an administrative hearing process for individuals who receive litter citations, providing a structured approach for adjudicating violations.

Under the new provisions, the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism is authorized to pursue civil actions for litter law violations and can conduct adjudicatory hearings in the relevant district office. Defendants will receive written notice of the hearing, and failure to appear may result in civil penalties. The bill also stipulates that any civil penalties collected will be deposited into the litter abatement account within the Conservation Fund, and the secretary of the Department is tasked with promulgating necessary rules and regulations to implement these changes. The act will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for bills to become law without signature.

Statutes affected:
HB173 Original: 56:1688(C)
HB173 Engrossed: 56:1688(C)
HB173 Reengrossed: 56:1688(C)
HB173 Enrolled: 56:1688(C)
HB173 Act 67: 56:1688(C)