This bill amends various sections of Louisiana's election law concerning the roles and responsibilities of registrars of voters. Key changes include the introduction of specific grounds for removal of registrars, such as willful misconduct, persistent failure to perform duties, incompetence, and consistent under-performance, among others. The bill also establishes a merit evaluation system for registrars, which will categorize performance as "excellent," "successful," "unsuccessful," or "not assessed." Additionally, it mandates that registrars report to the parish governing authority and outlines procedures for hearings on allegations against registrars, including those raised by the commissioner of elections.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a firing freeze during removal proceedings, ensuring that registrars cannot dismiss their deputies or other employees while under investigation. It also stipulates that registrars must perform essential functions even during office closures, which can only occur in extreme circumstances. The provisions of this Act will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for bills to become law without signature.

Statutes affected:
HB502 Original: 18:53(A), 18:55(A)(4), 18:59(B)(4), 18:134(A)
HB502 Engrossed: 18:53(A), 18:55(A)(4), 18:59(B)(4), 18:134(A)
HB502 Reengrossed: 18:53(A), 18:55(A)(4), 18:59(B)(4), 18:134(A)
HB502 Re-Reengrossed: 18:53(A), 18:55(A)(4), 18:59(B)(4), 18:134(A)
HB502 Enrolled: 18:53(A), 18:55(A)(4), 18:59(B)(4), 18:134(A)
HB502 Act : 18:53(A), 18:55(A)(4), 18:59(B)(4), 18:134(A)