This bill amends and reenacts R.S. 40:2402(3) and enacts R.S. 40:2402(5) to clarify the qualifications for peace officers in Louisiana. The definition of "peace officer" is expanded to include various law enforcement roles, such as sheriff's deputies responsible for inmate care, military police officers, and security personnel employed by the Supreme Court and courts of appeal. Additionally, the bill stipulates that all peace officers, as defined, must be United States citizens.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new definition for "United States citizen," encompassing individuals who are citizens by law, birth, or naturalization. Importantly, the provisions of this Act will not apply to currently employed peace officers who are lawful permanent residents, provided they obtain U.S. citizenship by August 1, 2031. This transition period allows existing peace officers time to meet the new citizenship requirement.

Statutes affected:
HB39 Enrolled: 40:2402(3)
HB39 Act 283: 40:2402(3)