Senate Bill No. 53, introduced by Senator Luneau, seeks to amend the definition of "public nuisance" in relation to criminal blighting of property. The bill specifically removes "detriment or harm to morals" as a criterion for declaring a property a public nuisance. This change is reflected in the amendments to the introductory paragraph of R.S. 14:107.3(A)(3) and subsections (A)(3)(a) and (c), which previously included moral considerations alongside health, safety, and welfare in the definition of a public nuisance.

The proposed law retains the existing criteria related to the physical condition of properties, such as being dilapidated, unsafe, or unsanitary, and the impact of poorly maintained properties on the surrounding community. By eliminating moral considerations, the bill aims to streamline the criteria for identifying public nuisances, focusing solely on health and safety concerns. The changes will take effect on August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB53 Original: 14:3(A)(3)