The bill amends and reenacts specific provisions of Louisiana's Revised Statutes concerning the Lake Providence Port Commission, specifically R.S. 34:1503(C) and 1504(C). It expands the powers of the commission by allowing it to regulate commerce and traffic within the port area, manage public wharves and docks, and construct or acquire necessary facilities for port operations. Notably, the commission is now authorized to acquire, construct, own, operate, and maintain terminal rail facilities, including those located beyond East Carroll Parish, to enhance rail transportation to and from the port area. Additionally, the commission can establish harbor lines in agreement with the corps of engineers.

The bill also modifies the commission's authority regarding the issuance of bonds. It removes the previous limitation on the amount of outstanding bonds, which was capped at fifteen million dollars, and allows the commission to incur debts and issue negotiable bonds or notes with the approval of the State Bond Commission. The commission can secure these bonds through revenues from its operations and may also use conventional mortgages on properties it constructs or acquires. Furthermore, it can accept financial assistance from various sources and pledge those funds to secure bond payments. The act will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for bills to become law without a signature.

Statutes affected:
SB146 Original: 34:1503(C), 34:1504(C)
SB146 Engrossed: 34:1503(C), 34:1504(C)
SB146 Enrolled: 34:1503(C), 34:1504(C)
SB146 Act : 34:1503(C), 34:1504(C)