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 handling allegations against registrars, including a firing freeze during removal proceedings.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that registrars may only close their offices in extreme circumstances while still being required to perform essential functions on those days. It also includes provisions for the evaluation of deputies and confidential assistants, mirroring the merit evaluation process for registrars. The changes aim to enhance accountability and performance standards within the office of registrars of voters, ensuring that they fulfill their duties effectively while providing a structured process for addressing misconduct.

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)