The bill amends Louisiana's laws regarding the manufacture and possession of bombs, specifically under R.S. 14:54.3 and R.S. 40:1472.3(E)(3)(c). 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 outlines penalties for violations, with increased fines and imprisonment for offenses committed within these enhanced security zones.

Additionally, the bill mandates that applicants for licenses related to explosives must bear the costs associated with background investigations and criminal history checks, replacing the previous requirement for processing fingerprint cards by the Louisiana State Police and the FBI. The penalties for violating the bomb possession laws include fines of up to $10,000 or imprisonment for up to 20 years, with harsher penalties for violations within enhanced security zones, where fines can reach $20,000. Overall, the bill aims to enhance public safety regarding explosives and ensure that those who handle them are properly licensed and vetted.

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)