This bill amends various sections of Louisiana law related to the Atchafalaya Trace Commission and the Atchafalaya Trace Heritage Area. Key changes include the renaming of the heritage area to the "Atchafalaya National Heritage Area" and the inclusion of Lafourche Parish within its boundaries. The bill also increases the commission's membership from fourteen to fifteen members, ensuring broader representation from the parishes involved. Additionally, it emphasizes the commission's role in developing partnerships and achieving goals aligned with the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area Management Plan.

The bill outlines the commission's duties, which include improving transportation and communication within the heritage area, seeking federal recognition and funding, and developing a comprehensive resource management plan. It mandates the preparation of a Cultural Heritage and Corridor Management Plan that coordinates existing plans and recommends policies for resource management. The commission is tasked with implementing this plan in collaboration with public and private entities to preserve and interpret the heritage area's resources while supporting economic revitalization efforts.

Statutes affected:
HB319 Original: 25:1221(B)(8), 25:1222(A), 25:1223(A)(1), 25:1224(A)(10)
HB319 Engrossed: 25:1221(B)(8), 25:1222(A), 25:1223(A)(1), 25:1224(A)(10)
HB319 Enrolled: 25:1221(B)(8), 25:1222(A), 25:1223(A)(1), 25:1224(A)(10)
HB319 Act 475: 25:1221(B)(8), 25:1222(A), 25:1223(A)(1), 25:1224(A)(10)