House Bill No. 611, introduced by Representative Hilferty, seeks to amend and reenact several sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes concerning the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans. Key changes include the removal of the mayor as the ex officio president of the board, replacing it with a provision that allows the board to elect its own president for a one-year term. The bill also authorizes the board to employ its own legal counsel, rather than relying on the city attorney and a special counsel, and specifies that the board's legal counsel will serve as the agent for service of process. Additionally, the executive director of the board will now be responsible for presenting quarterly reports to the city council, instead of the mayor or chief administrative officer.

The bill also repeals several existing provisions, including those that relieve the city of New Orleans from making annual appropriations for the maintenance and operation of its drainage system, as well as requirements for contractors to give employment preference to city residents. Other repealed provisions include the stipulation that the board's fund apportionment must be approved by the mayor and the city council in cases of disagreement. The proposed changes aim to streamline the governance and operational structure of the Sewerage and Water Board, enhancing its autonomy and efficiency. The bill is set to take effect on January 12, 2026.

Statutes affected:
HB611 Original: 33:4091(D)
HB611 Engrossed: 33:4091(D)
HB611 Reengrossed: 33:4091(D)