House Bill No. by Representative Phelps aims to amend and reenact R.S. 14:107.3 regarding the crime of criminal blighting of property. The bill expands the definition of "blighted property" to include premises occupied by tenants with rights of possession, ownership, occupancy, or lease interests, as well as adverse possessors. Additionally, it broadens the scope of culpability for criminal blighting to include not only property owners but also their representatives, agents, or anyone with custody, control, or ownership of the property.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new provision requiring municipalities to investigate complaints of alleged violations of the blighting law. If a complaint is deemed credible, the municipality is mandated to proceed with an administrative hearing in accordance with existing laws. This legislative change aims to enhance accountability and enforcement regarding property conditions that pose hazards to public safety and welfare.

Statutes affected:
HB512 Original: 14:3(A)(1)