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 penalties for violations are increased within these enhanced security zones.

Additionally, the bill outlines the licensing requirements for dealers, distributors, users, blasters, or handlers of explosives, mandating background investigations and criminal history checks for applicants. The costs associated with these background checks will be the responsibility of the applicant, replacing the previous requirement for processing fingerprint cards by the Louisiana State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The penalties for violating the bomb possession laws are also increased, with fines and imprisonment terms specified for offenses committed within enhanced security zones.

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)