House Bill No. by Representative Freiberg amends the existing law regarding the East Baton Rouge Parish Enhancement Fund. The bill specifies that $100,000 of the fund will be allocated annually for urban mass transit purposes in East Baton Rouge Parish, ensuring that these funds are not used to replace or displace previously allocated funds for the same purpose. Additionally, the bill removes the previous appropriation to the Baton Rouge Sports Foundation and the restriction on using funds for the salary or related benefits of its executive director. Instead, it designates $100,000 annually to Visit Baton Rouge for promoting athletic activities, facilities, and sporting events aimed at attracting visitors to the parish.

The remainder of the funds in the East Baton Rouge Parish Enhancement Fund will continue to be available for the Riverside Centroplex Arena and Exhibition Center. Any unspent or unencumbered funds at the end of the fiscal year will remain in the fund, and the treasurer will invest the fund's monies similarly to the state general fund, with all interest earned being deposited into the state general fund. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the lapse of time for gubernatorial action.

Statutes affected:
HB226 Original: 47:9(B)