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. Specifically, it grants state park wardens the power to enforce litter laws statewide and to issue citations for littering either by mail or in person. The bill also establishes an administrative hearing process for individuals who receive litter citations, allowing the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism to bring civil actions for penalties related to litter violations.

Additionally, the new provisions outline the procedures for adjudicatory hearings, including notification requirements for defendants and the potential for appeals to district courts. It specifies that any civil penalties assessed will also incur attorney fees and costs associated with the hearing, and that recovered penalties will be deposited into the litter abatement account within the Conservation Fund. The bill is set to take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for bills to become law without a 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)