Senate Bill No. 286, introduced by Senator Duplessis, amends several provisions related to the Downtown Development District (DDD) of New Orleans, reclassifying it as a political subdivision. The bill modifies the appointment process for the board of commissioners, shifting from appointments to nominations that require confirmation by a simple majority vote of the New Orleans city council. It establishes a five-year term for board members, beginning with staggered terms in September 2025, and outlines a process for filling vacancies. Additionally, the bill removes the fifty-year term limit for a special ad valorem tax levied by the city for the DDD, ensuring that tax proceeds will be paid directly to the district starting in 2027.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing law regarding the allocation of tax revenues, allowing the district to freely spend any remaining revenues after they have been transferred to the Board of Liquidation, City Debt, for the purposes originally authorized by voters. This change aims to enhance the district's financial flexibility. The proposed law also deletes certain provisions from current law to facilitate these changes and will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the lapse of time for gubernatorial action. The amendments specifically address sections of R.S. 33:2740.3, including the introduction paragraph and subsections (2), (C), and (F), while adding a new subsection (G)(5).

Statutes affected:
SB286 Original: 33:3(A), 33:3(A)(2)