House Bill No. 436, introduced by Representative Dickerson, amends existing laws to authorize the appointment of honorably discharged veterans as wardens in state and municipal parks. The bill modifies R.S. 33:4558 to allow municipalities or local governing authorities to appoint veterans as police officers, enabling them to exercise police powers in parks and other recreational areas. It also specifies that these veterans must meet all training requirements and qualifications for employment, and may be required to be certified by the Council on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.).

Additionally, the bill amends R.S. 56:1688(A) to permit the secretary of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism to appoint veterans as state park wardens, who will also need to fulfill the necessary training and certification requirements. The definition of "veteran" is clarified to include honorably discharged members of various branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and organized militia. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the role of veterans in law enforcement within state and municipal parks while ensuring they meet professional standards.

Statutes affected:
HB436 Original: 56:1688(A)
HB436 Engrossed: 56:1688(A)