Senate Bill No. 126, introduced by Senator Allain, amends R.S. 3:17.1(C) to clarify the authority of the commissioner of agriculture and forestry regarding prescribed burning by noncertified prescribed burn managers. The bill retains the existing requirement for applicants to notify the office of forestry about the location, date, and time of the prescribed burn. However, it modifies the language concerning the commissioner's authority to promulgate rules and regulations, changing "is authorized to" to "may," thereby streamlining the phrasing while maintaining the same intent.

The proposed changes will take effect on August 1, 2026, and aim to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding prescribed burning practices in Louisiana. By clarifying the commissioner's authority, the bill seeks to ensure that the rules governing prescribed burns are effectively managed in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act.

Statutes affected:
SB126 Original: 3:1(C)