House Bill No. 319 proposes amendments to the Atchafalaya Trace Commission and the Atchafalaya Trace Heritage Area. The bill changes the name of the heritage area to the "Atchafalaya National Heritage Area" and includes Lafourche Parish within its boundaries. Additionally, it increases the membership of the commission from 14 to 15 members, with each parish having territory within the heritage area appointing one member. The bill also repeals the provision that previously restricted the addition of other parishes to the heritage area until specific criteria were established by the commission.

The amendments to the existing law include various changes to the language and structure of the commission's duties and authority. The bill emphasizes the commission's role in improving transportation and communication facilities, seeking federal funding, and developing a comprehensive management plan for the heritage area. It retains the commission's status as an agency of state government within the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism while updating references to the heritage area throughout the legislation. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the management and recognition of the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area.

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