House Bill No. by Representative Newell seeks to amend and reenact R.S. 24:4 and 5, enhancing the provisions related to contempt of the legislature. The bill introduces new grounds for contempt, including the arrest of a member or officer of the legislature in violation of constitutional protections, engaging in disorderly conduct that interrupts legislative proceedings, and offering bribes to influence a member's vote. Additionally, the maximum penalty for contempt is increased from a fine of $1,000 to $50,000, or imprisonment for up to six months, or both.

The bill also modifies the procedures for handling contempt cases. It requires that when a statement of facts alleging contempt is reported, the president of the senate or the speaker of the house must not only certify the statement to the district attorney but also to the appropriate law enforcement officer, who is mandated to immediately arrest the accused. This change aims to streamline the enforcement of legislative authority and ensure that contemptuous actions are addressed promptly.

Statutes affected:
HB705 Original: