The bill seeks to amend and reenact various sections of the Louisiana Code of Governmental Ethics, introducing new definitions such as "public speech" and "reasonable transportation" to clarify the conditions under which public servants can accept transportation and benefits. It also outlines the calculation methods for air travel expenses and specifies what constitutes compensation from governmental entities, including stipends for public school teachers and athletic trainers. The bill emphasizes transparency by requiring public servants to disclose complimentary admissions, lodging, and transportation received, along with their costs. Additionally, it modifies existing rules regarding prohibited contractual arrangements, allowing for contract renewals under certain conditions.

Moreover, the bill includes significant changes to the procedures of the Board of Ethics, mandating electronic filing of financial statements and requiring detailed reports on investigations and complaints. It establishes a structured process for handling complaints, including notifying individuals about the final disposition of their non-sworn complaints and allowing for the submission of written reports under oath. The bill also outlines the rights of individuals involved in investigations, ensuring due process and the right to legal counsel. Notably, it proposes the repeal of R.S. 42:1141.4(D)(2), which removes specific language regarding document handling in criminal proceedings, and authorizes the Louisiana State Law Institute to reorganize definitions for clarity. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for bills to become law without signature.

Statutes affected:
HB674 Original: 42:1102(22), 42:1113(D)(2), 42:2(B)(1), 42:1123(16), 42:1124(C)(1), 42:2(D), 42:3(C)(1), 42:4(D)(3), 42:6(A)(2), 42:1134(I), 42:1141(B)(1), 42:2(A), 42:4(B)(2), 42:4(D)(2)
HB674 Engrossed: 42:1102(22), 42:1113(D)(2), 42:2(B)(1), 42:1123(16), 42:1124(C)(1), 42:2(D), 42:3(C)(1), 42:4(D)(3), 42:6(A)(2), 42:1134(I), 42:1141(B)(1), 42:2(A), 42:4(B)(2), 42:4(D)(2)
HB674 Reengrossed: 42:1102(22), 42:1113(D)(2), 42:2(B)(1), 42:1123(16), 42:1124(C)(1), 42:2(D), 42:3(C)(1), 42:4(D)(3), 42:6(A)(2), 42:1134(I), 42:1141(B)(1), 42:2(A), 42:4(B)(2), 42:4(D)(2)
HB674 Enrolled: 42:1102(22), 42:1113(D)(2), 42:2(B)(1), 42:1123(16), 42:1124(C)(1), 42:2(D), 42:3(C)(1), 42:4(D)(3), 42:6(A)(2), 42:1134(I), 42:1141(B)(1), 42:2(A), 42:4(B)(2), 42:4(D)(2)
HB674 Act 301: 42:1102(22), 42:1113(D)(2), 42:2(B)(1), 42:1123(16), 42:1124(C)(1), 42:2(D), 42:3(C)(1), 42:4(D)(3), 42:6(A)(2), 42:1134(I), 42:1141(B)(1), 42:2(A), 42:4(B)(2), 42:4(D)(2)