The bill amends existing laws regarding the manufacture and possession of bombs and the regulation of explosives in Louisiana. It establishes that it is unlawful for any person to manufacture or possess a bomb without the proper license, and it defines a bomb as an explosive compound or mixture with a detonator, excluding small arms ammunition. The bill introduces new definitions, including "enhanced security zone," which refers to specific public areas in Louisiana that host large events, such as the French Quarter in New Orleans. It also clarifies the definition of "explosive" and specifies that the law does not apply to fireworks as defined by existing statutes.

Additionally, the bill increases penalties for violations of the bomb manufacturing and possession laws, particularly for offenses committed within an enhanced security zone, where fines can reach up to $20,000 and imprisonment can last up to 20 years. It also modifies the licensing process for dealers and handlers of explosives, stating that applicants must bear the costs associated with background investigations and criminal history checks, replacing the previous requirement for processing fingerprint cards by law enforcement agencies.

Statutes affected:
SB125 Original: 40:3(E)(3)
SB125 Engrossed: 40:3(E)(3)
SB125 Enrolled: 40:3(E)(3)
SB125 Act 424: 40:3(E)(3)