House Bill No. HLS 25RS-321 establishes the Louisiana Dividend Program within the Department of Treasury, designed to return a portion of excess mineral revenues to qualifying Louisiana residents. The program will be funded by 25% of mineral revenues exceeding $650 million, with 20% of any dividend exempt from seizure. The bill outlines eligibility criteria, which include being at least 18 years old, a state resident, and compliant with military service registration, while disqualifying individuals with felony convictions during the qualifying year. It also defines the application process, including a specific application period and provisions for disabled individuals and military members.

Additionally, the bill amends public records law to include exceptions related to the Louisiana Dividend Program and establishes a Restorative Justice Subfund to support corrections services. It mandates the Department of Treasury to implement rules for administering the program, maintain confidentiality of applicants' information, and establish penalties for fraudulent claims. The legislation also introduces an appeal process for eligibility determinations, including a $25 fee that may be waived for indigent individuals, and specifies that dividends can only be paid if the fund's balance exceeds $400 million. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the administration of the dividend program while ensuring accountability and support for eligible individuals.

Statutes affected:
HB628 Original: 44:1(B)(35)
HB628 Engrossed: 44:1(B)(35)
HB628 Reengrossed: 44:1(B)(35)
HB628 Re-Reengrossed: 44:1(B)(35)