Senate Bill No. by Senator Hodges aims to enhance cybersecurity measures within local governmental and political subdivisions in Louisiana. The bill enacts R.S. 29:726(E)(31), which mandates the Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) to establish rules that set cybersecurity standards for these entities seeking state assistance in the event of a cybersecurity incident. These rules will ensure compliance with national cybersecurity standards and outline eligibility requirements for receiving state support.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that GOHSEP can still contract with noncompliant subdivisions to provide necessary services, but the costs incurred will be the responsibility of those subdivisions. The legislation also allows for the use of an emergency rulemaking process to expedite the establishment of these initial administrative rules. The effective date for this bill is set for August 1, 2026.