House Bill No. [insert bill number] proposes amendments to the dual officeholding and dual employment laws in Louisiana, specifically providing exceptions for volunteer firefighters and employees in the judicial branch. The bill enacts new provisions under R.S. 42:66(A)(11) and (Q), allowing members or officers of volunteer fire departments to serve in other offices or employments without violating dual officeholding laws. Additionally, it permits individuals employed in the judicial branch, including judges ad hoc or pro tempore, to hold part-time appointive offices in other branches of government as designees or appointed members of boards, committees, task forces, or commissions.
The proposed law retains existing prohibitions against dual officeholding while introducing these specific exceptions. This change aims to facilitate the participation of volunteer firefighters and judicial branch employees in public service roles without compromising the integrity of government operations. The bill reflects a recognition of the valuable contributions made by these individuals and seeks to enhance their ability to serve their communities.