The bill enacts a new provision in Louisiana law, specifically R.S. 44:4(65), which addresses the disclosure of certain law enforcement records. It prohibits the disclosure of arrest and prosecution records, commonly referred to as "rap sheets," for individuals who serve as witnesses in criminal proceedings. These records, which are maintained by the clerk of court, can only be disclosed if the individual voluntarily releases them, if they are publicly available, or if a court order mandates their release.

Additionally, the bill defines "criminal history records" as those collected and maintained by the Criminal Justice Information Services Division of the FBI or the Louisiana Computerized Criminal History System operated by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections. This legislation aims to protect the privacy of witnesses in criminal cases while still allowing for certain exceptions regarding the availability of these records.

Statutes affected:
HB1245 Original: 44:1(B)(30)
HB1245 Engrossed: 44:1(B)(30)