Senate Bill No. 302, introduced by Senator Jenkins, amends the structure of the First Judicial District Court in Louisiana, which is composed of Caddo Parish. The bill retains the existing framework of the court, which consists of eleven judges elected from three election sections. However, it introduces a significant change by designating one judgeship, specifically Division F, to be elected at large, rather than from a specific election section. This change is intended to enhance representation and accessibility for voters across the district.

Additionally, the bill repeals Section 3(E) of Act No. 145 from the 1994 Third Extraordinary Session, which previously governed the election of judges in the district. The proposed law ensures that the current judge serving in Division F will continue to be elected from election section three until they vacate the position due to resignation, retirement, incapacity, or if they choose not to run for re-election. Subsequent elections for Division F will then be conducted as at-large elections, thereby allowing a broader electorate to participate in the selection of the judge. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for gubernatorial action.

Statutes affected:
SB302 Original: 13:477(1)