Senate Bill No. 393, introduced by Senator Owen, aims to amend and reenact several provisions related to the regulation of explosives in Louisiana. The bill updates definitions, including "blaster," which now encompasses individuals who directly manage or supervise others in the detonation of explosives, and introduces a new definition for "explosives business" to cover various entities involved in the manufacturing and distribution of explosives. Additionally, the definition of "handler" is revised to specify that handlers transport explosives without detonating them, and the term "person" is expanded to include employees or owners of explosives businesses.

The bill also outlines the licensing process for individuals and businesses involved with explosives, mandating thorough background checks that include fingerprint-based criminal history checks. Civil penalties for violations of explosives regulations are retained, with the potential for fines up to $10,000, and the bill expands liability to include explosives businesses. These changes are set to take effect on August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB393 Original: 40:2(4), 40:1), 40:3(E)(3), 40:9(A)