Senate Bill No. 440, introduced by Senator Luneau, amends the existing laws governing renaissance districts in Louisiana, specifically focusing on the parish of Rapides. The bill establishes a renaissance district in the parish, replacing the previous population-based criteria for its creation. It also modifies the structure of the board of commissioners that governs the district, increasing the number of commissioners from seven to nine. The bill outlines the appointment process for these commissioners, specifying that four will be appointed by the governing authority of Rapides Parish, with one member coming from a prior nonprofit entity's board, and three members with experience in juvenile education, rehabilitation, or incarceration. Additionally, one member each will be appointed from the sheriff's office and the district attorney's office, both of whom must also have relevant experience, along with three members appointed by the Central Louisiana Juvenile Detention Center Authority.

The bill retains the provision that board members serve without a salary or per diem but allows for reasonable travel allowances for official duties. The changes are set to take effect on August 1, 2026. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the governance of the renaissance district by ensuring a more diverse and experienced board of commissioners, thereby improving the district's ability to address juvenile detention, education, and rehabilitation effectively.

Statutes affected:
SB440 Original: 15:22(A)
SB440 Engrossed: 15:22(A)
SB440 Reengrossed: 15:22(A)