House Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to establish R.S. 24:35, which delineates the composition and districts for electing members to the Louisiana Senate, consisting of thirty-nine members. The bill specifies the precincts that comprise each senatorial district, from District 1 to District 25, ensuring that each district is represented by one senator. It also includes provisions for effective dates related to legislative redistricting and seeks to repeal R.S. 24:35.1, thereby updating the legal framework governing Senate election districts. The new language provides a detailed breakdown of precincts, enhancing clarity in electoral boundaries and aiming to improve representation within the state.

The proposed redistricting is based on the 2020 federal decennial census, with the new districts set to take effect for election purposes upon the governor's signature or the lapse of time for gubernatorial action for the regular state legislative elections in 2027. For all other purposes, the new districts will be effective at 10:00 a.m. on January 10, 2028. The bill clarifies that the precincts referenced are those identified as Voting Districts (VTDs) in the 2020 Census Redistricting TIGER/Line Shapefiles and includes provisions for any subdivisions made by parish governing authorities. Importantly, the bill ensures that the term of office for current officeholders will not be reduced due to the new district composition, and any positions filled after January 10, 2028, will adhere to the updated district descriptions.

Statutes affected:
HB369 Original: