House Bill No. by Representative Bayham aims to establish new regulations regarding the disposition of historical statues and monuments owned by public entities in Louisiana. The bill enacts R.S. 25:915, which defines key terms such as "public entity," "historical statue or monument," and "office of state parks." It mandates that any historical statue or monument removed from public display after the bill's effective date must be transferred to the office of state parks, along with all rights of custody and control. The public entity is responsible for coordinating the delivery of these items to the office of state parks.
Furthermore, the bill requires the office of state parks to designate a location within the state park system for the placement of these transferred historical statues and monuments. The office will also determine how these items are displayed, ensuring preservation and public access. Additionally, the office is tasked with providing interpretive signage or materials that present accurate historical context for each statue or monument, including details about the subject commemorated and the circumstances surrounding its original placement and removal. The office of state parks is authorized to promulgate rules to implement these provisions in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act.