The "Baton Rouge Regional Airport Authority Act" establishes the Baton Rouge Regional Airport Authority as a special purpose entity responsible for the management and operation of the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport. The bill empowers the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Council to create this authority and outlines its governance structure, which includes a board of commissioners appointed by the council. Key provisions detail the board's composition, requiring five to nine members with specific qualifications, and mandate compliance with the Open Meetings Law and Louisiana Public Records Law to ensure transparency. The authority is granted various powers, including the ability to issue bonds, manage airport facilities, and appoint law enforcement and fire protection personnel.

Additionally, the bill addresses the retirement benefits of employees transitioning from local government to the regional authority, ensuring their prior service is credited and benefits preserved. It allows the authority to establish its own retirement system while also permitting participation in the Municipal Police Employees' Retirement System. The bill modifies definitions related to the retirement system to include employees of the Baton Rouge Regional Airport Authority and outlines the conditions under which the local government may be exempt from certain financial obligations during the transfer of employees. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the operational efficiency and governance of the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport while ensuring compliance with legal and financial obligations.

Statutes affected:
SB176 Engrossed: 11:2213(12)
SB176 Reengrossed: 11:2213(12)
SB176 Enrolled: 11:2213(12)
SB176 Act : 11:2213(12)