House Bill No. 378, introduced by Representative Bayham, amends existing law regarding the obstruction of public passages, specifically addressing the use of motorized vehicles in such offenses. The bill modifies R.S. 14:100.1(C) and adds R.S. 14:100.1(D), establishing that individuals who use a motorized vehicle to hinder, delay, or obstruct first responders while they are performing their duties will face increased penalties. Specifically, offenders can be fined up to $1,000 or imprisoned for up to six months, or both, which is an increase from the previous maximum fine of $500 for general obstruction offenses.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the provisions do not apply to the erection of barricades or obstructions for safety measures related to construction or maintenance work, nor to actions taken by governmental authorities in the performance of their duties. The amendments adopted by the House Committee on Administration of Criminal Justice also removed references to obstructing law enforcement officers, focusing solely on first responders.

Statutes affected:
HB378 Original: 14:1(C)
HB378 Engrossed: 14:1(C)