This bill amends and reenacts certain provisions of Louisiana law regarding the authority and powers of city or ward marshals and their deputies. It establishes that city or ward marshals are considered peace officers with the same powers as regular law enforcement officers, except as specified in the new subsections. The bill outlines specific powers granted to marshals serving populations of 40,000 or less, including the execution of court orders, detainment for civil processes, and authority during emergencies or special events. Additionally, it clarifies that marshals cannot exercise general law enforcement authority or conduct arrests without proper authorization from local governing authorities.

The bill also modifies the definition of "peace officer" to explicitly include deputy marshals of city or ward marshals. It allows local governing authorities to enact ordinances that can grant marshals the same powers as peace officers. Furthermore, the bill ensures that the supplemental pay for marshals and deputy marshals remains unaffected. The changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
HB1038 Original: 13:1881(B)
HB1038 Engrossed: 13:1881(B)
HB1038 Reengrossed: 13:1881(B)
HB1038 Enrolled: 13:1881(A)
HB1038 Act 866: 13:1881(A)