La. Rev. Stat. § 25:811 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 811
Intergovernmental cooperation
Status: in_force

The State Art, Historical, and Cultural Preservation Agency may exercise and perform any authorized power and function jointly or in cooperation with one or more historic preservation districts created pursuant to R.S. 25:732 or with the United States or its agencies.

Added by Acts 1975, No. 592, §2, eff. Aug. 1, 1975.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:801 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 801
Merger and consolidation; creation of department and office of director; appointment, functions
Status: in_force

A. In order to merge and consolidate into one department, under authority of Section 32 of Article III of the Constitution of 1921, certain executive and administrative offices, boards, commissions, councils, departments and agencies of the state of Louisiana whose duties and functions are of a similar nature or character, there is hereby created and established the State Department of Art, Historical and Cultural Preservation.

B. The governor shall appoint a director and an assistant director who shall serve at the pleasure of the governor at salaries to be fixed by the governor. The director and assistant director shall be the executive and administrative officers of the State Department of Art, Historical and Cultural Preservation and shall discharge all operational, maintenance, administrative and executive functions of the department. The functions of the director and assistant director shall comprise the administrative functions of the state now or hereafter authorized by the constitution and laws to be exercised in relation to the administration, management and operation of the art, historical and cultural programs and facilities of the state as hereinafter more specifically enumerated and provided in this Chapter.

C. Repealed by Acts 1976, No. 396. §2.

Added Acts 1972, No. 425, §1, operative Jan. 1, 1973; Acts 1976, No. 396, §2.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:32 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 32
Establishment of Louisiana Library Resources Program
Status: in_force

The Louisiana Library Resources Program is established. The program shall be administered by the executive secretary (state librarian) of the State Library of Louisiana.

Acts 1992, No. 210, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:784 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 784
Historic preservation
Status: in_force

A. The office shall regulate the historic character of the buildings, furnishings, and grounds of the district.

B. No building, structure, or edifice, including fences, boundaries, walls, signs, light fixtures, steps, and paving, or other appurtenant fixtures shall be erected, altered, restored, moved, or demolished within the district until an application for a certificate of appropriateness has been submitted to and approved by, and the certificate issued by the office.

C. No furniture, objects of art or any other interior furnishings of any building within the district shall be removed, altered, stored, replaced, or demolished, or otherwise disposed of until a certificate of appropriateness has been submitted to and approved by the office. The provisions of this Subsection shall apply to furniture, objects of art, and other furnishings which have historic significance. The provisions of this Subsection shall not be construed to interfere with the normal operation of state agencies and boards housed in buildings within the district or the normal use and maintenance thereof.

D. There shall be no excavating or moving of earth, rock, or subsoil within the district until a certificate of appropriateness has been submitted to and approved by the office.

E. There shall be no rearrangement of the grounds of any building within the district until a certificate of appropriateness has been submitted to and been approved by the office. The provisions of this Subsection shall not be construed to interfere with normal maintenance of any grounds within the district.

F. The provisions of this Part shall not be construed to prevent ordinary maintenance or repairs which do not involve a change of design, material, or of the outward appearance thereof; nor to prevent the construction, reconstruction, alteration, or demolition of any feature which is required for the public safety because of an unsafe or dangerous condition. The provisions of this Part shall not apply to work which was begun or for which a permit was issued prior to the effective date of this Part.

G. The office shall adopt and promulgate rules, regulations, and standards for the administration of this Part. No review, approval, disapproval, or recommendation shall be made by the office prior to the adoption and promulgation of such rules, regulations, and standards. It shall hold public hearings prior to adoption of any rule.

Added by Acts 1979, No. 650, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:733 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 733
Historic preservation study committee
Status: in_force

Prior to the establishment of an historic preservation district commission, the following steps shall be taken:

(1) The governing body or authority of such governmental unit, be it municipality, incorporated town, parish, parish-council, or similar governmental unit, which shall hereinafter be called the governing body, may appoint an historic preservation study committee for the purpose of making an investigation of any proposed historic preservation district. Said study committee shall consist of from three to seven members appointed by the chief executive official of said governmental unit, by and with the advice and consent of the majority of the governing body as a whole. The members of said study committee shall be electors of the said governmental unit, of the full age of majority, and they shall be chosen, as far as possible, from historical societies, archaeological associations, preservation groups, architectural associations, cultural organizations and educational groups as may exist therein.

(2) The historic preservation study committee shall, after investigation, render to the planning or zoning agency or commission serving the governmental unit, if there be such an agency or commission, a report on the historic significance of the buildings, structures, sites, monuments, areas and landmarks to be governed by the proposed historic preservation district and shall designate the buildings, structures, sites, monuments, areas and landmarks to be regulated by said commission, including suggestions for a proposed ordinance or law designed to implement and carry out the recommendations of said committee. In the absence of such a planning or zoning agency or commission serving the governmental unit said report shall be made to the governing body.

NOTE: TEXT OF PARAGRAPH (3) AS AMENDED BY ACTS 1975, NO. 592, §1, EFF. AUG. 1, 1975:

(3) A copy of said report and accompanying documents shall be filed with the State Art, Historical, and Cultural Preservation Agency.

NOTE: TEXT OF PARAGRAPH (3) AS AMENDED BY ACTS 1975, NO. 804, §3:

(3) A copy of said report and accompanying documents shall be filed with the Louisiana Preservation and Cultural Commission and the Louisiana Art Commission for their consideration and to obtain their advice.

(4)(a) In the event that any museum exists within the unit, a copy of the report and recommendation of the historic preservation study committee shall be filed with it for its consideration and to obtain its advice.

(b) In the event that a chapter or unit of the American Institute of Architects or similar responsible organization of architects exists within the governmental unit, a copy shall be furnished to it for its consideration and to obtain its advice.

(c) In the event that a landmark society exists within the governmental unit, then a copy shall be furnished to it for its consideration and to obtain its advice.

(d) In the event any individual, agency, or organization demonstrates an interest in participating in the review of the committee's report then copy of said report shall be made available to said party for its consideration and in order to obtain its advice.

(5) A public hearing shall be held by the planning or zoning agency or commission, if one exists, serving the governmental unit, at which hearing the report and recommendations of this historic preservation study committee shall be presented and an opportunity afforded the public to consider them. In the absence of said agency or commission the public hearing shall be held by the historic preservation study committee. Written notice of the purpose, time and place of such hearing shall be published in the official journal, if any exists, or in any newspaper of general circulation in the area served by the governmental unit at least once and at least a minimum of seven days before said hearing; and such written notice may be affixed to the bulletin board, front door or other prominent place at or near the main entrance of the building, hall or room where meetings of the governing body are usually held.

(6) The planning or zoning agency or commission if one exists in the governmental unit, shall submit a final written report to the governing body within sixty days after the public hearing and said report and recommendation shall contain (a) a complete description of the area (b) a map or sketch showing the boundaries of the area to be included within any proposed historic preservation district, sites, monuments, areas and landmarks appropriate for landmark and (c) suggestions for a proposed ordinance or law designed to implement and carry out the recommendation of said agency or commission and the provisions of this Chapter. If no planning or zoning agency exists within the governmental unit, the historic preservation study committee shall submit said written report to the governing body within sixty days after the public hearings.

(7) The report and recommendations of the historic preservation district study committee or the planning or zoning commission or agency, as the case may be, shall be reviewed in full at an open meeting of the governing body of the governmental unit involved, within a reasonable time after the rendition of said report, but in any event, not more than ninety days thereafter.

Acts 1970, No. 147, §3. Amended by Acts 1975, No. 592, §1, eff. Aug. 1, 1975; Acts 1975, No. 804, §3.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1221 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1221
Legislative recognition
Status: in_force

A. The Atchafalaya Basin, with its adjacent lands and communities, is a place where natural, scenic, cultural, and historic resources combine to form a cohesive, nationally distinctive landscape arising from patterns of human activity shaped by geography. These patterns make the basin, its people, and surroundings significant in the unfolding of the state's history and representative of the national experience through the physical features that remain and the traditions that have evolved. Continued use of this heritage region by people whose traditions help to shape the landscape enhances its significance.

B. The legislature recognizes that:

(1) The Atchafalaya Basin region is an assemblage of rich and varied resources representing a unique aspect of Louisiana heritage which can be best managed as such an assemblage through partnerships.

(2) The region reflects a complex mixture of people and their origins, traditions, customs, beliefs, and folkways of interest to the state and nation.

(3) The region's patterns of natural, scenic, and cultural resource features, qualities, processes, uses, values, and relationships must be conserved.

(4) The Atchafalaya Basin and its adjacent lands and waters offer outstanding recreation opportunities, educational experiences, and potential for scientific research.

(5) The combination of resource patterns important to the multiple themes of the region must retain their stability, integrity, sustainability, health, and attractiveness to be capable of supporting interpretation.

(6) The resources represented in the region must continue to be productive and economically viable, consistent with sound ecosystem management policies and practices.

(7) The Atchafalaya region enjoys broad support for state and national designation as a heritage area.

(8) Principal organizations and individuals, drawn from a broad cross section of constituencies, are willing to develop partnerships to achieve stated goals and realize a vision consistent with establishment of the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area Management Plan.

(9) The heritage area concept enjoys the consent of local governments in the area.

Acts 1997, No. 1440, §1, eff. July 1, 1998; Acts 2002, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 112, §4, eff. Jan. 1, 2003; Acts 2025, No. 475, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:746 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 746
Review by governing body or authority and by courts of actions of constitutionally created historic preservation district commissions; right to compel
Status: in_force

A. This Section is for the purpose of protecting and promoting the public welfare, protecting and preserving the cultural and historical heritage of the state, and protecting the public trust and enforcing and fulfilling the mandates of the Constitution of Louisiana related to any constitutionally created historic preservation district commission.

B. The following definitions shall apply in this Section:

(1) "Business agent or lessee" means an agent or lessee of an owner of a private or semi-public building, or other private or semi-public immovable property located, in whole or in part, within a historic preservation district, who is operating a business in, or has control of, the building or immovable property, but shall not include a residential lessee who merely resides or is domiciled in the building.

(2) "Commission" means (a) each historic preservation commission authorized, created, established, and/or existing under the Louisiana Constitution of 1921 for which constitutional authority is retained by the Louisiana Constitution of 1974 and (b) each historic preservation commission which is created or established, now or hereafter, in the Louisiana Constitution of 1974.

(3) "District" means a designated or defined area of a municipality placed under the authority of a commission for purposes of historic preservation.

(4) "Essential assets" means (a) the quaint and distinctive character of a district, (b) the value to the community of the buildings having architectural or historical worth in a district, and (c) the public trust placed in a commission, or in a governing body or authority, by the constitution for the preservation of (a) and (b).

(5) "Essential duties" means to (a) preserve a district for the benefit of the people of the district, the municipality, and this state, (b) prevent the quaint and distinctive character of a district from being injuriously affected, (c) protect the value to the community of the buildings having architectural and historical worth from being impaired, and (d) ensure that a reasonable degree of control is being exercised over the architecture of private and semi-public buildings erected on or abutting the public streets of a district.

(6) "Person" means a commission, a governing body or authority of a district, an applicant for a permit from a commission, any incorporated or unincorporated neighborhood or residential group or association which has members residing or domiciled in the district, any landowner association which has members owning, leasing, or using immovable property in the district, or any business association which has members operating businesses in the district, and any incorporated or unincorporated historical preservation association having members domiciled in this state.

(7) "Quaint and distinctive character of a historic preservation district" includes but is not limited to the historic or traditional ambiance of the district, the antiquity of the district, the historic "tout ensemble" of the district, the old-fashioned or traditional neighborhood quality of the district, and the lighting and traditional architectural styles and details of the district.

C.(1) Any person aggrieved by a decision, recommendation, act, failure to act, or proceeding of a commission or an agency of the governing body or authority which has permitting, regulatory, or enforcement authority within a district, which decision, recommendation, act, failure to act, or proceeding is inconsistent with the public trust placed in, or the essential duties or purpose of, the commission, or the governing body or authority, by the constitution for the preservation of essential assets of the district, may apply in writing to the governing body or authority for a reversal or modification of the decision, recommendation, act, or proceeding, or for an order to take action or a specific action, in order to comply with the purpose and essential duties of the commission or the governing body or authority. Such person may also have a stay or stop order issued while the application is pending.

(2) An application or appeal under Paragraph (1) of this Subsection shall be filed within thirty days of the commission, or an agency of the governing body or authority, notifying the applicant in writing or, if not notified in writing, within thirty days of the applicant's actual knowledge of, but no later than one hundred eighty days of, the decision, recommendation, proceeding, act, or failure to act.

(3) The governing body or authority shall consider the application or appeal filed under Paragraph (1) of this Subsection within forty-five days of its filing and shall thereafter render a written decision setting forth its reasons within a reasonable period of time. In reaching its decision, the governing body or authority shall consider paramount the purpose and essential duties of the commission, or the governing body or authority.

(4) In a matter filed under Paragraph (1) of this Subsection, if it appears from the specific facts alleged in the application and verified by a supporting affidavit that immediate and irreparable injury, loss, damage, or impairment will result to an essential asset of the district, the governing body or authority shall order or grant a stay or stop order. Security shall not be required.

D.(1) Any person aggrieved by an action or a decision of a governing body or authority affecting a district for the reason that an action or decision of the governing body or authority is inconsistent with the public trust placed in, or the essential duties and purpose of, the commission, or the governing body or authority, by the constitution for the preservation of essential assets of the district, may intervene in an action, or file suit within thirty days from the date of the action or decision in a district court in the parish in which the district is located to seek reversal or modification of the decision, injunctive relief, writ of mandamus, or any other relief provided by law or equity, in order to seek compliance with the purpose and essential duties of the commission, or the governing body or authority.

(2) A suit filed under Paragraph (1) of this Subsection shall be tried as a summary proceeding. The court shall take proof as in ordinary cases. In actions for injunctive relief, the court shall also take verified pleadings and supporting affidavits.

(3) In an action under Paragraph (1) of this Subsection, the court shall consider paramount the purpose and essential duties of the commission and its governing body or authority under the constitution, and the court shall liberally construe the purpose and essential duties in favor of preserving the quaint and distinctive character of the district.

(4) It is not a defense to an action under Paragraph (1) of this Subsection that other similar non-conforming alterations in violation of historic preservation rules, regulations, laws, or the constitution exist or have been allowed to exist by the commission, or its governing body or authority or one of its agencies.

(5) In an action under Paragraph (1) of this Subsection, if it appears from the specific facts alleged by verified petition or by supporting affidavit that immediate and irreparable injury, loss, damage, or impairment will result to an essential asset of the district, the court shall grant a stay, or issue a temporary restraining order or preliminary injunction. Security shall not be required.

E.(1) Notwithstanding Subsection C of this Section, while pursuing or attempting to pursue relief under Paragraph (1) of that Subsection, any person aggrieved by a decision of or the issuance of a permit by a commission, or an agency of the governing body or authority which has permitting, regulatory or enforcement authority within a district, which decision or permit is inconsistent with the public trust placed in, or the essential duties or purpose of, the commission, or the governing body or authority, by the constitution for the preservation of essential assets of the district, shall have an immediate right to seek injunctive relief in a district court in the parish in which the district is located in order to prevent immediate and irreparable injury, loss, damage, or impairment to an essential asset of the district.

(2) In an action under Paragraph (1) of this Subsection, the court shall consider paramount the essential purpose and duties of the commission and its governing body or authority under the constitution, and the court shall liberally construe the purpose and duties therein in favor of preserving the quaint and distinctive character of the district.

(3) It is not a defense to an action under Paragraph (1) of this Subsection that other similar non-conforming alterations in violation of historic preservation rules, regulations, laws, or the constitution exist or have been allowed to exist by the commission, or its governing body or authority or one of its agencies.

(4) In an action under Paragraph (1) of this Subsection, if it appears from the specific facts alleged by verified petition or by supporting affidavit that immediate and irreparable injury, loss, damage, or impairment will result to an essential asset of the district, the court shall issue a temporary restraining order or preliminary injunction. Security shall not be required.

F.(1) An owner of a private or semi-public building, or other private or semi-public immovable property, located in whole or in part within a district is bound to keep the building and immovable property in repair so that the building or immovable property does not fall into ruin. A building has fallen into ruin when the building is in danger of falling, part of it falling, or needing to be demolished. The danger need not be imminent.

(2) Any person may compel an owner in violation of Paragraph (1) of this Subsection, or, if justice requires, the owner's business lessee or agent who has control of the building or immovable property, to have the building or immovable property reasonably repaired and properly cared for in reasonable compliance with Paragraph (1) of this Subsection. The reasonable repair and proper care of the building or the immovable property shall be made in compliance with the rules of the commission for the district in which the building or immovable property is located.

G. In all actions under this Section, the supreme court and courts of appeal shall consider paramount the purpose and essential duties of the commission and its governing body or authority under the constitution, and the corresponding duties and limitation of rights of the owner or lessee of a building or immovable property located in whole or in part within the district resulting from or because of its designation. The court shall liberally construe the purpose, duties, and limitation of rights in favor of preserving the quaint and distinctive character of the district.

H. The rights, actions, and rights of action in this Section are in addition and supplemental to any other rights, actions, and rights of action provided by the constitution, law, home rule charter, municipal ordinance, rule, or regulation.

Acts 2001, No. 1228, §1, eff. July 9, 2001.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:273 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 273
Orleans Parish Law Library; revenues
Status: in_force

The revenues to defray the expenses of the Orleans Parish Law Library shall be provided by the clerk of the Civil District Court of Orleans Parish by adding to the initial cost of docketing all civil suits, including the docketing of succession and tutorship proceedings, but excluding all suits now docketed on the clerk's records, the maximum sum of two dollars, which sum shall be remitted by the clerk of court, on the first day of each month, to the Judicial Expense Fund for the Civil District Court for the Parish of Orleans.

Acts 1964, No. 284, §3. Amended by Acts 1980, No. 319, §1; Acts 1990, No. 491, §1; Acts 1995, No. 1132, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:850.11 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 850.11
Louis Armstrong Park Authority and Historic Jazz District; creation, composition, and powers
Status: in_force

A. There is hereby created within the parish of Orleans, as more specifically provided in Subsection B of this Section, a body politic and corporate which shall be known as the Louis Armstrong Park Authority and Historic Jazz District, referred to in this Section as the "district". The district shall be a political subdivision of the state as defined in the Constitution of Louisiana.

B. The boundaries of the district shall be that area of the city of New Orleans bounded on the east by Esplanade Avenue, on the south by Rampart Street, on the west by Canal Street, and on the north by North Claiborne Avenue, including the contiguous property on both sides of these streets.

C. The district is established for the primary object and purpose of acquiring ownership, leasing, or entering into a management agreement for the Louis Armstrong Park facility from or with the city of New Orleans. Additionally, the district is authorized to promote, encourage, and enhance the park and all areas within the boundaries of the district through renewed commerce, industry, and utilization and development of the human resources of the area. The objectives of the district may include such matters as music, housing, economic development, skills and technical training, the cultural and historic value of the area, tourism, entertainment, health, and day care facilities.

D.(1) The district shall be governed by a seventeen-member board of commissioners, referred to in this Section as the "board". The board shall be composed as follows:

(a) The governing board of the Greater Treme Consortium, Inc., shall appoint one member.

(b) The governing board of Save Our Soul Coalition, Inc., shall appoint one member.

(c) The governing board of the Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation, Inc., shall appoint one member.

(d) The governing boards of the Claiborne Cultural Innovation District and the Claiborne Merchants & Business Association shall jointly appoint one member.

(e) The governing board of the Historic Faubourg Treme Association shall appoint one member.

(f) The governing board of French Quarter Citizens, Inc., shall appoint one member.

(g) The governing board of the Congo Square Preservation Society shall appoint one member.

(h) The governing board of the New Orleans Black Masking Indian Cooperative shall appoint one member.

(i) The governing board of the Kumbuka African Drum and Dance Collective shall appoint one member.

(j) The governing board of the New Orleans Culture Preservation Committee shall appoint one member.

(k) The governing board of Tamborine and Fan, Inc., shall appoint one member.

(l) The governing board of the New Orleans Musicians' Clinic and Assistance Foundation shall appoint one member.

(m) The member of the Louisiana Senate whose district encompasses all or the greater portion of the area of the district or his designee.

(n) The member of the Louisiana House of Representatives whose district encompasses all or the greater portion of the area of the district or his designee.

(o) The member of the United States House of Representatives whose district encompasses all or the greater portion of the area of the district or his designee.

(p) The mayor of the city of New Orleans or his designee.

(q) The member of the governing authority of the city of New Orleans whose district encompasses all or the greater portion of the area of the district or his designee.

(2) All members of the board shall be residents of Orleans Parish.

(3)(a) Board members serving pursuant to Subparagraphs (1)(a) through (l) of this Subsection shall serve three-year terms after serving initial terms as provided in this Subparagraph. Four members shall serve initial terms of three years; four shall serve initial terms of two years; and four shall serve initial terms of one year, as determined by lot at the first meeting of the board.

(b) The members serving pursuant to Subparagraphs (1)(m) through (q) of this Subsection shall serve during their terms of office. Any designee serving on the board shall serve at the pleasure of the designating authority.

(4) Any vacancy in the membership of the board, occurring either by reason of the expiration of the term for which appointed or by reason of death, resignation, or otherwise, shall be filled in the manner of the original appointment. If the entity responsible for the appointment of a member fails to fill a vacancy within thirty days, the board may appoint an interim successor to serve for the remainder of the unexpired term.

(5) Board members are eligible for reappointment.

(6) The board shall elect from its members a chairman, a vice chairman, a secretary-treasurer, and such other officers as it deems necessary. The duties of the officers shall be fixed by the bylaws adopted by the board.

(7) The minute books and archives of the district shall be maintained by the secretary-treasurer of the board. The monies, funds, and accounts of the district shall be in the official custody of the board.

(8) The board shall adopt such rules and regulations as it deems necessary or advisable for conducting its business affairs and, to the extent that funds are available, shall hire such assistants and employees as are needed to assist the board in the performance of its duties. Rules and regulations of the board relative to the notice and conduct of meetings shall conform to applicable law, including, if applicable, R.S. 42:11 et seq., relative to open meetings. The board shall hold regular meetings as shall be provided for in the bylaws and may hold special meetings at such times and places within the district as may be prescribed in the bylaws.

(9) A majority of the members of the board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. The board shall keep minutes of all meetings and shall make them available through the secretary-treasurer of the board.

(10) Each member of the board shall have one vote, and the vote of a majority of the members of the board present and voting, a quorum being present, shall be required to decide any question upon which the board takes action.

(11) The members of the board shall serve without compensation but shall receive reimbursement for reasonable expenses directly related to the governance of the district.

E. The district shall have and exercise all powers of a political subdivision necessary or convenient for the purpose of funding the district and carrying out its objects and purposes, including but not limited to the following:

(1) To incur debt.

(2) To sue and be sued.

(3) To adopt, use, and alter at will a corporate seal.

(4) To adopt bylaws and rules and regulations.

(5) To receive by gift, grant, donation, or otherwise any sum of money, property, aid, or assistance from the United States, the state of Louisiana, or any political subdivision thereof, or any person, firm, or corporation.

(6) To enter into contracts, agreements, or cooperative endeavors with the state and its political subdivisions or political corporations and with any public or private association, corporation, business entity, or individual.

(7) To elect officers and appoint agents and employees and prescribe their duties.

(8) To acquire property by purchase, gift, grant, donation, or lease.

(9) To establish monetary, bank, and investment accounts.

(10) To establish committees or subcommittees.

F. In order to provide for the growth and development of the district, to encourage the fullest use of underutilized resources, to provide for the enhancement of the tax base, and to improve communication and coordination among the economic and human development efforts of state, federal, and local governments, the board may:

(1) Seek the designation of the park as a national park in any way it deems appropriate, including communication and cooperation with any state or federal authority or commission. Additionally, the board may seek designation as the federal or state management authority for such park.

(2) Make recommendations concerning natural and environmental factors, trends in industrial, population, or other developments; the habits and lifestyles of the people of the district; the relation of land use within the district as it relates to the city as a whole; areas for the concentration of wholesale, retail, business, and other commercial uses; and areas for recreational uses, and for spaces and areas of mixed uses.

(3) Make recommendations concerning the need for and the proposed general location of public and private works and facilities, including but not limited to pollution control facilities.

(4) Make or assist in studies and investigations of the resources of the district and the existing and emerging problems of industry, commerce, transportation, population, housing, public service affecting the redevelopment of the district, and in making such studies to seek the cooperation and collaboration of the appropriate state departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of federal, state, and local government, educational institutions, research organizations, whether public or private, and of civic groups and private persons and organizations.

(5) Prepare and from time to time revise inventory listings of the district's resources and of the major public and private works and facilities of all kinds which are deemed necessary to the redevelopment of the district.

(6) Cooperate and confer with and upon request supply information to federal agencies and to local and regional agencies created pursuant to a federal program or which receive federal support and to cooperate and confer with economic development authorities in and outside of the state.

(7) Advise and supply information to civic groups and private persons and organizations who may request such information or advice or who study or otherwise concern themselves with the district's problems and development of the fields of business and industry, labor, natural resources, urban growth, housing, and public service activities such as public health and education, insofar as such problems and development may be relevant to the district's redevelopment.

(8) Provide information to officials of departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of state and local government and to the public at large in order to foster public awareness and understanding of the objectives of the district in order to stimulate public interest and participation in the orderly, integrated development of the district.

(9) Accept and receive, in furtherance of its functions, funds, grants, and services from the federal government or its agencies, from departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of state, parish, municipal, or local government, or from private or civic sources.

(10) Solicit the assistance and active cooperation of industry and private civic organizations which are active in anti-litter and recycling efforts to assist in the control and reduction of litter within the boundaries of the district. The board may also encourage industry and private civic organizations to participate in the "adopt-a-road" program as provided in R.S. 48:235 for the purpose of controlling litter along the public roads in the district.

(11) Hold public hearings and sponsor public forums whenever it deems necessary or useful in the execution of its functions.

(12) Contract with the city of New Orleans for the purchase or lease-management of any parks within the boundaries of the district and to assess an admission fee regarding any such park.

Acts 2022, No. 349, §1.

NOTE: See Acts 2022, No. 349, §3, regarding terms of board members.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:673 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 673
Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism; program responsibilities; cooperation of departments
Status: in_force

A. The Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, referred to in this Chapter as the "department", in concert with and under the guidance of the Council for the Development of French in Louisiana, shall develop and provide for implementation of a program for provision of services of state government in the French language.

B.(1)(a) In developing the program, the department shall work in cooperation with departments of state government, and such departments shall cooperate with the department.

(b) The Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism shall also participate in the program in the same manner as other departments.

(2) The department shall request each state department to identify its employees who speak French with sufficient fluency to provide or assist others in providing services of the department to French-speaking persons and shall assist the departments in identifying such employees. The department shall request the Council for the Development of French in Louisiana to assist the departments of state government in identifying employees who speak French with necessary fluency.

(3) The department shall develop guidelines for implementation of the program. Such guidelines shall address such issues as priorities in implementing the program in service areas with greater numbers of French-speaking citizens or visitors and for services dealing with such matters as health, safety, compliance with regulations, or complexity of processes. The implementation guidelines shall also address dealing with limited department resources.

(4) The department shall provide for appropriate insignia, such as a badge with the word "Bienvenue" or "Bonjour" to identify employees who will assist French-speaking clients in accessing and using department services. The department shall provide procedures for recognition of the employees entitled to wear such insignia which may include recognition of the employee's language skills by the Council for the Development of French in Louisiana.

C.(1) The department shall provide for implementation of the program by state departments in accordance with the guidelines developed as provided in this Section and subject to the resources available to individual departments.

(2) The department shall urge the convention and visitors bureaus throughout the state to implement a similar program.

Acts 2011, No. 106, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:231 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 231
Armand J. Brinkhaus, Sr., South St. Landry Community Library District; creation; boundaries
Status: in_force

The Armand J. Brinkhaus, Sr., South St. Landry Community Library District is hereby created within the boundaries of St. Landry Parish, including the municipalities of Sunset, Grand Coteau, and Cankton, and having the following specific boundaries: Beginning on the Southwest Common Border of St. Landry and Acadia Parishes at the junction of the parish boundary line and Highway 754; thence east on Highway 754 and following said highway in its eastern movement to the east section line of Section 25, T7S, R4E, and also a junction with Bayou Bourbeau; thence following flow of bayou in its northerly and northeastern directions to Ward 1, Ward 2 boundary line; thence east on said ward line and following said ward line in an easterly direction to junction with Bayou Bourbeau and thence following the Bayou Bourbeau and also the ward line to a point in the southeast corner of Section 144, T7S, R4E, at which point the ward line changes direction to south-southwest, following said line south-southwest to its termination at the southern boundary line of St. Landry Parish; thence following the common boundary of St. Landry and Lafayette Parishes in its southwesterly direction to its southwestern extremity; thence on its northerly direction on said common boundary of St. Landry and Acadia Parishes to the junction of Highway 754 and the point of beginning.

Acts 1990, No. 405, §1; Acts 2017, No. 200, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:380.26 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 380.26
Use of collections
Status: in_force

Any collection of the Louisiana State Oil and Gas Museum may, subject to approval of the board, be lent in part. The board shall insure proper safeguards for its maintenance and return and shall insure that proper records are kept. The collections shall be available for use in educational projects, subject to the approval of the board.

Acts 1997, No. 1091, §1; Acts 2001, No. 130, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:8 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 8
Functions of board of commissioners; duties of executive secretary
Status: in_force

A. The board of commissioners of the State Library of Louisiana, through the executive secretary, shall plan and work toward a coordinated system of parish and regional libraries throughout the state so as to give and furnish every citizen and resident of the state free library service of the highest quality consistent with modern methods and as may be justified by financial and economic conditions.

B. The executive secretary shall endeavor to coordinate and integrate the library service so as to afford the schools, colleges, and universities the best free library service possible by means of interloan arrangements, book exchanges, and the like.

Acts 1991, No. 938, §2.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:234 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 234
Powers; duties
Status: in_force

A. The Armand J. Brinkhaus, Sr., South St. Landry Community Library District is hereby declared to be a body corporate and politic, governed by the board of commissioners, with the power to sue and be sued, acquire, construct, maintain, extend, repair, and improve library equipment, fixtures, facilities, and services. The district shall operate entirely within the framework of the revenues to be derived as provided by this Part, and the library shall not become a charge on the public funds of the state of Louisiana.

B. It may contract and cooperate with other library agencies, and governmental and private entities. It may also receive gifts of books, money, or other property, which may be used or held in trust for the purposes given; may purchase and operate traveling libraries, and circulate such libraries within the district under such rules and conditions as the board may deem necessary. It may publish lists and circulars of information, and may conduct a clearing house for periodicals for free gifts to local libraries, and shall perform such other services considered in the best interest of the district.

C. The board may borrow money, give security therefor, purchase on contract, and do and perform any and all other acts and things necessary or proper to carry out the provisions of this Section.

Acts 1990, No. 405, §1; Acts 2017, No. 200, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:4 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 4
Organization of board; meetings; quorum
Status: in_force

Immediately upon the selection and appointment of the first board of commissioners, the members shall meet at Baton Rouge on the call of the secretary of the former Louisiana Library Commission and organize by electing a chairman, a vice-chairman, and an executive secretary; they shall also provide for quarterly meetings of the board and for special meetings on the call of the chairman or of any three members. A majority of the whole membership shall be required to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, but the executive secretary and the chairman, acting jointly, will be authorized at all times to transact routine business.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:232 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 232
Board of commissioners; appointment; terms; qualifications; removal of members
Status: in_force

A. There is created a board of commissioners of the Armand J. Brinkhaus, Sr., South St. Landry Community Library District, domiciled in the parish seat, to be composed of seven members. The mayor of the municipality of Sunset shall appoint one member who shall serve for one year. The mayor of the municipality of Grand Coteau shall appoint one member who shall serve for one year. The mayor of the municipality of Cankton shall appoint one member who shall serve for one year. The governing authority of St. Landry Parish shall appoint one member to serve for one year, one for two years, one for three years, and one for five years. Their successors shall each be appointed as provided in this Subsection for five year terms, each member to serve until his successor is commissioned and qualified.

B. The members of the board shall serve without pay and shall not be removed except for cause during their terms of office.

Acts 1990, No. 405, §1; Acts 2017, No. 200, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1302 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1302
Delta Bike Trail Commission; purpose; domicile
Status: in_force

A. The commission shall be domiciled in the municipalities of Concordia, Tensas, Madison, and East Carroll parishes, with its headquarters in Vidalia, Louisiana.

B.(1) The commission is created for the purpose of overseeing the development and upkeep of the Delta Bike Trail, a bike and walking trail along and on the Mississippi River in Northeast Louisiana through the parishes of Concordia, Tensas, Madison, and East Carroll, referred to in this Chapter as the "trail".

(2) The commission has the authority to do the following:

(a) Receive funding from the Department of Transportation and Development, the Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism, or any federal state funds or grants for the development of the Delta Bike Trail.

(b) Promote marathons, nature-based, recreational, scenic, cultural, historic, and other forms of tourism.

(c) Improve transportation and communication facilities and access within the trail area.

(d) Further develop family-oriented recreational facilities along the trail area.

(e) Promote and market the region through a variety of communications media including maps, guides, tapes, videos, advertisement, signage, and electronic media.

Acts 2022, No. 336, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1305 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1305
Advice
Status: in_force

The parish planning and zoning departments of Concordia, Tensas, Madison, and East Carroll parishes, and all its subcommittees, shall serve in an advisory capacity to the commission, relative to the trail or any projects contemplated by or to be undertaken by the commission.

Acts 2022, No. 336, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1215.5 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1215.5
Funding
Status: in_force

The governing authority of the parish of Jackson may provide, by ordinance, for the funding of the museum board or for the funding of any public museum or related facilities created by such board.

Acts 2004, No. 424, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:380.141 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 380.141
Establishment and location: purpose and use
Status: in_force

A. The Louisiana Political Museum and Hall of Fame, referred to in this Chapter as the "museum", is established as a facility in the town of Winnfield, parish of Winn, under the overall jurisdiction of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism as more specifically provided in this Chapter.

B. The Louisiana Political Museum and Hall of Fame shall be a historical, cultural, scientific, and technological, educational institution whose primary purpose shall be to research, collect, preserve, and present, as an educational resource, media, film, motion pictures, recordings, pictures, documents, artifacts, objects of art, and the like that reflect the political, social, and cultural history of the politics of the state, including but not limited to such materials related to political campaigns and candidates, officeholders, and supporting personnel.

Acts 2007, No. 415, §1, eff. July 1, 2007.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:764 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 764
Applicability of historic district commission powers
Status: in_force

It is the intent and purpose of this Part that the regulatory powers conferred by it on an historic preservation district commission, created under its authority, shall apply to all private property, in the area controlled by it, including all buildings, structures, areas, sites, and their adjuncts and appurtenances, insofar as they constitute part of the entirety or "tout ensemble" of the historic section. Any governmental agency of the state or local government, other than the governing body, having a responsibility for any building, structure, area, site, public way and their adjuncts and appurtenances within the historic preservation site shall seek the advice of the historic district commission prior to the initiation of any substantive change, modification, renovation, restoration or construction.

Acts 1974, No. 273, §14.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:380.95 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 380.95
Donations and loans; disposition of property
Status: in_force

A. The Department of State and the board, jointly or separately, may solicit and accept funds, governmental grants, donations, and contributions of lands, buildings, monies, artifacts, relics, audio and video recordings, motion picture film, works of art, or other property on behalf of and as additions to the Mansfield Female College Museum either in the form of loans or in the form of donations inter vivos or mortis causa, and the Department of State may acquire them by purchase, lease, or otherwise, subject to the terms, conditions, or limitations contained in the instrument by which such property is acquired. However, the board may enter into any and all contracts with any person, lender, or donor that it may deem fit, proper, and necessary to accept and receive such lands, buildings, monies, artifacts, relics, audio and video recordings, motion picture film, works of art, or other property on behalf of and as additions to the Mansfield Female College Museum. The museum may serve as the beneficiary of any public trust heretofore or hereafter created for such purpose pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 9:2341 et seq.

B. The board is granted the authority of deaccession with respect to any collection of the Mansfield Female College Museum and, for such purpose, is exempted from laws relative to the sale or disposal of surplus property. The board shall establish policies and procedures necessary to carry out this authority in an orderly manner.

C.(1) Any property which has been deposited with the Mansfield Female College Museum, by loan or otherwise, and which has been held by the museum for more than ten years, and to which no person has made claim shall be deemed to be abandoned and, notwithstanding the provisions of Chapter 1 of Title XII of Book III of the Louisiana Civil Code, shall become the property of the museum, provided that Paragraph (2) of this Subsection has been complied with.

(2)(a) At least once each week for two consecutive weeks, the board shall cause to be published in at least one newspaper of general circulation in the parish of DeSoto a notice and listing of the property.

(b) The notice shall contain:

(i) The name and last known address, if any, of the last known owner or depositor of the property.

(ii) A description of the property.

(iii) A statement that if proof of claim is not presented by the claimant to the board and if the claimant's right to receive such property is not established to the satisfaction of the board within sixty-five days from the date of the second published notice, the property will be deemed to be abandoned and shall become the property of the Mansfield Female College Museum.

(3) If no valid claim has been made to the property within sixty-five days from the date of the second published notice, title to the property shall vest in the Mansfield Female College Museum free from all claims.

Acts 2003, No. 592, §1, eff. upon appropriation of funds; Acts 2004, No. 229, §1.

NOTE: See Acts 2003, No. 592, §§3 and 4, relative to conditions for transfer of Women's College Museum to Dept. of State, termination of authority for transfer, and effectiveness of transfer.

NOTE: See Acts 2004, No. 229, §3(A), relative to changing museum name and §3(B) relative to Acts 2004, No. 229, not affecting Acts 2003, No. 592, §§3 and 4, relative to potential nullity of and prohibited actions under Acts 2003, No. 592.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1323 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1323
Powers and duties of the commission
Status: in_force

A. A majority of the members of the commission shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of official business. All official actions of the commission shall require the affirmative vote of a majority of the members present and voting.

B. The commission shall:

(1) Meet at least once each quarter at the call of the commission chairman.

(2) Adopt bylaws establishing policies and procedures for its governance, including but not limited to the following:

(a) The election and responsibilities of the officers of the commission, including a chairman and vice chairman.

(b) The appointment, duties, and functions of standing and special committees of the commission, including the appointment of noncommission members to such committees and their functions.

(c) The preparation of a budget and plan for sufficient funding.

(3) Establish and use an identifying seal pertaining to commission business.

C. The commission may:

(1) Individually, or in cooperation with any nonprofit corporation established to support the commission, seek and expend funds from any source, public or private, to support programs of the commission.

(2) Authorize reports and recommendations which include the issuance, publication, or distribution of general information documents or pamphlets, which are published on a regular basis and are generally known as newsletters.

(3) Acquire by purchase, lease as lessee, and hold and use any property, movable or immovable, corporeal or incorporeal, or any interest therein necessary or desirable for carrying out the purposes of this Chapter and sell, lease as lessor, transfer, and dispose of any such property acquired by it.

D. All public works contracted by the commission shall be subject to, and in accordance with, Chapter 10 of Title 38 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950.

Acts 2013, No. 128, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1282 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1282
Public displays of religious history impacting the law
Status: in_force

A. Public displays with acknowledged religious history may include, but shall not be limited to, the items in this Section.

B. The Mayflower Compact, written and adopted in 1620, the text which reads as follows:

Mayflower Compact (1620 A.D.)

Agreement Between the Settlers at New Plymouth: 1620

IN THE NAME OF GOD, AMEN. We, whose names are underwritten, the Loyal Subjects of our dread Sovereign Lord, King James, by the Grace of God, of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith. Having undertaken for the Glory of God, and Advancement of the Christian Faith, and the Honour of our King and Country, a voyage to plant the first colony in the northern Parts of Virginia; do by these presents, solemnly and mutually, in the Presence of God and one another, covenant and combine ourselves together into a civil Body Politick, for our better Ordering and Preservation, and Furtherance of the Ends aforesaid: And by Virtue hereof do enact, constitute, and frame, such just and equal Laws, Ordinances, Acts, Constitutions and Offices, from time to time, as shall be thought most meet and convenient for the General good of the Colony; unto which we promise all due submission and obedience. In Witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names at Cape Cod the eleventh of November, in the Reign of our Sovereign Lord King James, of England, France, and Ireland, the eighteenth, and of Scotland the fifty-fourth, Anno Domini; 1620.

C. The Ten Commandments, as extracted from the Bible.

D. The Declaration of Independence, adopted by Congress on July 4, 1776, the text of which reads as follows:

The Declaration of Independence.

IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1776

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen United States of America.

When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness, -- That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, -- That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. -- Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.

He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.

He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.

He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.

He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.

He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the Legislative powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.

He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.

He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary powers.

He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.

He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harrass our people, and eat out their substance.

He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.

He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil power.

He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:

For Quartering large bodies of armed troops among us.

For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States.

For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world.

For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent.

For depriving us in many cases, of the benefits of Trial by jury.

For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences.

For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies.

For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Government.

For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.

He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.

He has plundered our seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.

He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty and perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.

He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.

He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms; Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.

Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our Brittish brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our separation, and hold them, as we would the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.

E. Articles I through VI of the Northwest Ordinance enacted by Congress on July 13, 1787, which prohibited slavery in the new territories and which stated that "religion, morality, and knowledge as being necessary for good government and the happiness of mankind" and which text reads as follows:

Article I

No person, demeaning himself in a peaceable and orderly manner shall ever be molested on account of his mode of worship or religious sentiments, in the said territory.

Article II

The inhabitants of the said territory shall always be entitled to the benefits of the writ of habeas corpus, and of the trial by jury; of a proportionate representation of the people in the legislature; and of judicial proceedings according to the course of the common law. All persons shall be bailable, unless for capital offenses, where the proof shall be evident or the presumption great. All fines shall be moderate; and no cruel or unusual punishments shall be inflicted. No man shall be deprived of his liberty or property, but by the judgment of his peers or the law of the land; and, should the public exigencies make it necessary, for the common preservation, to take any person's property, or to demand his particular services, full compensation shall be made for the same. And, in the just preservation of rights and property, it is understood and declared, that no law ought ever to be made, or have force in the said territory, that shall, in any manner whatever, interfere with or affect private contracts or engagements, bona fide, and without fraud, previously formed.

Article III

Religion, morality, and knowledge, being necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged. The utmost good faith shall always be observed towards the Indians; their lands and property shall never be taken from them without their consent; and, in their property, rights, and liberty, they shall never be invaded or disturbed, unless in just and lawful wars authorized by Congress; but laws founded in justice and humanity, shall from time to time be made for preventing wrongs being done to them, and for preserving peace and friendship with them.

Article IV

The said territory, and the States which may be formed therein, shall forever remain a part of this Confederacy of the United States of America, subject to the Articles of Confederation, and to such alterations therein as shall be constitutionally made; and to all the acts and ordinances of the United States in Congress assembled, comformable thereto. The inhabitants and settlers in the said territory shall be subject to pay a part of the federal debts contracted or to be contracted, and a proportional part of the expenses of government, to be apportioned on them by Congress according to the same common rule and measure by which apportionments thereof shall be made on the other States; and the taxes for paying their proportion shall be laid and levied by the authority and direction of the legislatures of the district or districts, or new States, as in the original States, within the time agreed upon by the United States in Congress assembled. The legislatures of those districts or new States, shall never interfere with the primary disposal of the soil by the United States in Congress assembled, nor with any regulations Congress may find necessary for securing the title in such soil to the bona fide purchasers. No tax shall be imposed on lands the property of the United States; and, in no case, shall nonresident proprietors be taxed higher than residents. The navigable waters leading into the Mississippi and St. Lawrence, and the carrying places between the same, shall be common highways and forever free, as well to the inhabitants of the said territory as to the citizens of the United States, and those of any other States that may be admitted into the confederacy, without any tax, impost, or duty therefor.

Article V

There shall be formed in the said territory, not less than three nor more than five States; and the boundaries of the States, as soon as Virginia shall alter her act of cession, and consent to the same, shall become fixed and established as follows, to wit: The western State in the said territory, shall be bounded by the Mississippi, the Ohio, and Wabash Rivers; a direct line drawn from the Wabash and Post Vincents, due North, to the territorial line between the United States and Canada; and, by the said territorial line, to the Lake of the Woods and Mississippi. The middle State shall be bounded by the said direct line, the Wabash from Post Vincents to the Ohio, by the Ohio, by a direct line, drawn due north from the mouth of the Great Miami, to the said territorial line, and by the said territorial line. The eastern State shall be bounded by the last mentioned direct line, the Ohio, Pennsylvania, and the said territorial line: Provided, however, and it is further understood and declared, that the boundaries of these three States shall be subject so far to be altered, that, if Congress shall hereafter find it expedient, they shall have authority to form one or two States in that part of the said territory which lies north of an east and west line drawn through the southerly bend or extreme of Lake Michigan. And, whenever any of the said States shall have sixty thousand free inhabitants therein, such State shall be admitted, by its delegates, into the Congress of the United States, on an equal footing with the original States in all respects whatever, and shall be at liberty to form a permanent constitution and State government: Provided, the constitution and government so to be formed, shall be republican, and in conformity to the principles contained in these articles; and, so far as it can be consistent with the general interest of the confederacy, such admission shall be allowed at an earlier period, and when there may be a less number of free inhabitants in the State than sixty thousand.

Article VI

There shall be neither slavery nor involuntary servitude in the said territory, otherwise than in the punishment of crimes whereof the party shall have been duly convicted: Provided, always, That any person escaping into the same, from whom labor or service is lawfully claimed in any one of the original States, such fugitive may be lawfully reclaimed and conveyed to the person claiming his or her labor or service as aforesaid.

Acts 2006, No. 602, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:899 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 899
Logo; competition; trademark
Status: in_force

A. The logo shall be a design used as a hallmark on any approved juried Louisiana native craft signifying quality.

B. The Louisiana State Arts Council shall allocate to itself an amount not to exceed five thousand dollars, plus administrative expenses not to exceed fifteen percent, in Fiscal Year 1986-87 for a juried logo competition. The council, with the advice of the crafts panel, shall select the design from among competitors for the exclusive use of the Louisiana State Arts Council and shall award the winner the cash award upon the assigned agreement that the design, and any derivative thereof, is solely, exclusively, and perpetually the property of the state of Louisiana under the control and auspices of the council.

C. The council shall register the logo as a trademark.

D. The council may, but no more frequently than every five years, conduct another competition for a new logo, which shall be conducted as provided in this Section.

E. Participation in the competition shall be limited to residents of Louisiana.

Acts 1986, No. 588, §1.

{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1986, NO. 588, §4, REGARDING EFFECTIVENESS.}}
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:380 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 380
Establishment and location; purpose and use
Status: in_force

A. The Louisiana State Cotton Museum is established as a facility in the parish of East Carroll under the overall jurisdiction of the Department of State, as more specifically provided in this Chapter and in R.S. 36:744(F).

B. The Louisiana State Cotton Museum shall be a pre-historical, historical, cultural, scientific, and technological educational institution whose primary purpose shall be to research, collect, preserve, and present, as an educational resource, documents, artifacts, objects of art, and the like that reflect the social history, cultural history, natural history, and culture of Louisiana emphasizing the northeast region of Louisiana.

Acts 1992, No. 152, §2, eff. June 5, 1992; Acts 2021, No. 20, §4.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:349 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 349
Commercial leases; New Orleans French Quarter
Status: in_force

A. Notwithstanding any provisions of law to the contrary, and in particular the provisions of R.S. 41:1212, the office of the state museum is authorized to lease or contract with a qualified real estate or property management company to lease, for any purposes other than oil, gas, or other mineral development, commercial space within the Lower Pontalba Building and other properties located in the New Orleans French Quarter under the ownership, management, jurisdiction, or possession of the office of the state museum, without advertising for and receiving public bids for such leases, provided that such leases are negotiated for and executed according to the terms and conditions contained in this Section.

B. Any and all commercial leases shall be compatible with a comprehensive usage plan approved by the board of directors of the Louisiana State Museum. The comprehensive usage plan shall include criteria used to evaluate an application for a commercial lease. The evaluation criteria may include but shall not be limited to:

(1) The compatibility of the proposed use of the commercial space with the historic nature of the museum property.

(2) The relationship and impact of the proposed commercial use on the integrity and safety of the building.

(3) The anticipated effect of the proposed commercial use on the integrity and safety of the building.

(4) The viability of the applicant's business plan and potential for revenue generation.

(5) The financial qualifications of the applicant.

(6) Whether the application, proposed use, or resulting lease will result or is likely to result in a violation of the Code of Governmental Ethics or any other applicable law.

C.(1) Following its determination that a commercial space is or will become available for lease, the office of the state museum shall provide reasonable public notice and an opportunity to submit applications to lease such commercial space.

(2) The public notice shall be posted on the website of the department.

(3) The public notice shall provide the date the commercial space will be available for lease; the address of the available commercial space; and how the public may obtain additional information such as lease terms, application requirements, and evaluation criteria.

D. All commercial leases shall be reviewed and approved by the attorney general as to form and legality.

Added by Acts 1979, No. 581, §1, eff. July 18, 1979; Acts 1997, No. 318, §1, eff. June 18, 1997; Acts 2001, No. 156, §1; Acts 2025, No. 450, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:151 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 151
Public libraries; disposition of unused books; purpose; definitions
Status: in_force

A. The legislature recognizes that reading is the foundation of all learning. It is the purpose of this Section to provide greater access to that foundation to the citizens of Louisiana by utilizing unused library books to improve reading achievement in the early grades and to improve literacy among adults. It is intended that the library book dispositions provided pursuant to this Section complement all reading initiatives and other literacy efforts being made by the state of Louisiana to meet the demands of higher literacy among our citizens.

B.(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, each public library in the state of Louisiana may dispose of any superseded, obsolete, unused, or otherwise unnecessary book by permitting it to be claimed as provided in Paragraph (2) of this Subsection.

(2) If a library book has been out of use for over a year, a public library may, with the approval of the appropriate governing board, dispose of such book by making it available to be claimed by any hospital, correctional facility, public or private institution, nonprofit organization, adult education program, youth organization, school, or any individual for private use free of charge.

(3)(a) The Webster Parish Library, subject to the approval of the Webster Parish Library Board of Control, may sell any superseded, obsolete, or otherwise unnecessary book in the possession of the library to any hospital, correctional facility, public or private institution, nonprofit organization, adult education program, youth organization, school, or individual.

(b) The proceeds collected from the sale of library books pursuant to Subparagraph (a) of this Paragraph shall be remitted to the Webster Parish Library Board of Control and shall be used exclusively for the maintenance, operation, and support of the Webster Parish Library.

(4)(a) The Calcasieu Parish Library, subject to the approval of the Calcasieu Parish Library Board of Control, may sell any superseded, obsolete, or otherwise unnecessary book in the possession of the library to any hospital, correctional facility, public or private institution, nonprofit organization, adult education program, youth organization, school, or individual.

(b) The proceeds collected from the sale of library books pursuant to Subparagraph (a) of this Paragraph shall be remitted to the Calcasieu Parish Library Board of Control and shall be used exclusively for the maintenance, operation, and support of the Calcasieu Parish Library.

(5)(a) The Livingston Parish Library, subject to the approval of the Livingston Parish Library Board of Control, may sell any superseded, obsolete, or otherwise unnecessary book in the possession of the library to any hospital, correctional facility, public or private institution, nonprofit organization, adult education program, youth organization, school, or individual.

(b) The proceeds collected from the sale of library books pursuant to Subparagraph (a) of this Paragraph shall be remitted to the Livingston Parish Library Board of Control and shall be used exclusively for the maintenance, operation, and support of the Livingston Parish Library.

C.(1) A public library seeking to dispose of books as provided in Paragraph (B)(2) of this Section shall do so by making all such books available to be selected for ownership in a convenient location in the library.

(2) The Webster Parish Library may dispose of books as provided in Paragraph (B)(3) of this Section by making such books available for purchase at a convenient location to be determined by the Webster Parish Library Board of Control.

(3) The Calcasieu Parish Library may dispose of books as provided in Paragraph (B)(4) of this Section by making such books available for purchase at a convenient location to be determined by the Calcasieu Parish Library Board of Control.

(4) The Livingston Parish Library may dispose of books as provided in Paragraph (B)(5) of this Section by making such books available for purchase at a convenient location to be determined by the Livingston Parish Library Board of Control.

D. As used in this Section, "public library" shall include the State Library of Louisiana, any parish or municipal library, and any college or university or school library.

Acts 1999, No. 682, §1, eff. July 1, 1999; Acts 2005, No. 15, §1, eff. July 1, 2005; Acts 2012, No. 80, §1, eff. July 1, 2012; Acts 2018, No. 36, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:802 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 802
Powers and duties
Status: in_force

A. The director shall be responsible for all functions of the state of Louisiana affecting art, historical and cultural development which provide such services for the people of this state as provided for in this Chapter, including all functions of the state heretofore or hereafter vested in and administered, managed, operated, and maintained by the following boards, commissions, councils, departments, and agencies:

(1) Louisiana Art Commission (R.S. 25:301-306).

(2) Board of Commissioners of Louisiana Arts and Sciences Center (R.S. 25:571-584).

(3) Louisiana Historical Preservation and Cultural Commission (R.S. 25:521-527).

(4) Board of Directors of the Louisiana State Museum (R.S. 25:341 to R.S. 25:347).

(5) Old State Capitol Memorial Commission (Act 250 of 1948; Act 233 of 1954).

(6) Orleans Parish Landmarks Commission (R.S. 25:381-382).

(7) Clinton Confederate Memorial Cemetery.

(8) Jackson Confederate Memorial Cemetery.

(9) Confederate Memorial Hall (Const. Art. 18, §4).

B. In addition to the functions, powers, and duties otherwise vested in the director by the provisions of this Chapter, the director shall have and exercise the power and authority to:

(1) Represent the public interest in the administration of this Chapter.

(2) Create, in his discretion, one or more advisory councils, composed of not less than five nor more than fifteen members, appointed by the director to serve at his pleasure without compensation, or per diem, except the members may, at the discretion of the director, be compensated for actual expenses incurred in the performance of such duties as may be prescribed by the director. Each council so appointed shall act solely in an advisory capacity to the director and assistant director to advise and make recommendations. The council shall not perform any administrative or executive duties, nor shall it make any determination with reference to any specific procedural matter of departmental policy. Each member of the board shall be a citizen and registered voter of this state and shall be qualified for such position by demonstrated interest in and knowledge of art, and historical and cultural preservation.

(3) Make and publish an annual report and such special reports as it considers desirable to the governor and to the legislature regarding the administration of this Chapter.

(4) Accept all donations and legacies, under any and all titles whatsoever, which may be made by private or public instrument of writing by will or codicil or in any other manner; provided, that the title to any property, real or personal, donated to and accepted for the use of the department shall vest in and belong to the state of Louisiana, for the sole and exclusive use and benefit of the state.

(5) Make, alter, amend and promulgate rules and regulations not inconsistent with the law.

(6) Adopt a seal.

(7) Establish and operate a program of preservation, maintenance and restoration of historic buildings and monuments. Acquire by lease, purchase or donation real or personal property which are landmarks or historical objects.

(8) Maintain the site and records with respect to the Camp Moore Memorial Cemetery, the Clinton Confederate Memorial Cemetery and the Jackson Confederate Memorial Cemetery.

(9) Establish, operate and maintain a program to stimulate interest in and appreciation of Louisiana art, architecture and historical preservation.

(10) Manage and supervise, through the assistant director, the Louisiana State Museum custody and operation of the Cabildo, the Presbytere, the Lower Pontalba Building, the Creole House, the Jackson House, the former United States Branch Mint Building, the Old State Arsenal, Madame John's Legacy, the Confederate Memorial Hall and other museums hereafter established.

(11) Repealed by Acts 2018, No. 2, §1, eff. April 20, 2018.

(12) Manage and supervise the old state capitol memorial and establish and maintain a museum therein, and provide free office space for the state headquarters of each federally chartered veterans organization therein.

(13) Authorize research on the historical and architectural background of homes and select homes which are landmarks in Orleans Parish.

(14) Establish, manage and operate a french language television broadcasting facility in conjunction with the University of Southwestern Louisiana.

(15) Construct, acquire, repair and maintain a weapons museum and supervise and administer the museum building and grounds.

(16) Provide for the perpetual care of the statue of Edward Douglas White, the late chief justice of the United States of America.

(17) Establish standards and criteria for acquisition, preservation, maintenance, and operation of properties acquired by the agency.

(18) Be directed to undertake a statewide survey to identify and document historic properties under both public and private ownership and report to the legislature at the next legislative regular session with the progress and/or finished report.

(19) Authorize the entry upon private lands to make surveys and examinations with the permission of the owner.

(20) Prepare and maintain an official state register of historic places including all those on the national register and those to be named to the national register.

(21) Participate in international conferences and preservation programs.

(22) Authorize publication and advertisements to stimulate state interest.

(23) Authorize the hiring of a professional staff to aid the agency in the task of preserving historical monuments and landmarks.

(24) Create and establish one or more state historical trusts in accordance with the provisions of R.S. 25:812.

Added by Acts 1972, No. 425, §1, operative Jan. 1, 1973. Amended by Acts 1975, No. 592, §3, eff. Aug. 1, 1975, Acts 1976, No. 396, §1, eff. July 31, 1976; Acts 2012, No. 811, §17, eff. July 1, 2012; Acts 2018, No. 2, §1, eff. April 20, 2018.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1000 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1000
Legislative intent
Status: in_force

The legislature hereby recognizes that no Naval or Marine Corps war memorial has been established in Louisiana, despite the heroic participation and sacrifices of its citizens in World War II and subsequent conflicts in which the United States has been engaged. The legislature further recognizes that a fitting memorial should be established to honor the Louisianians who participated so valiantly in the naval efforts of World War II and the Korean and Viet Nam conflicts and that the opportunity to secure a destroyer to be docked in Louisiana waters as a lasting memorial would honor Louisiana naval personnel and, in addition, would form an outstanding tourist attraction for Louisianians and other people visiting our state. It is further recognized that the opportunity to obtain a presently available destroyer, the U.S.S. Kidd, should not be neglected, since this valiant destroyer, named for Rear Admiral Isaac C. Kidd, who was killed at Pearl Harbor, has a distinguished record in both conflicts and therefore presents to the state an opportunity which may not again arise to acquire and establish the U.S.S. Kidd as a Naval war memorial, and that, therefore, a long delayed public service thus can be achieved through acquisition of this destroyer or, if that proves impossible, then another suitable memorial.

Added by Acts 1979, No. 415, §1; Acts 1992, No. 68, §4.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1215.2 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1215.2
Board purpose
Status: in_force

The board shall be a historical, cultural, and educational entity with the primary purpose of encouraging research, collecting, preserving, and presenting, as an education resource, objects of art, documents, artifacts, and the like that reflect the history, art, and culture of the parish and the surrounding area.

Acts 2004, No. 424, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:897 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 897
Juried Louisiana native crafts program; purpose
Status: in_force

A. There is hereby created and established the juried Louisiana native crafts program within the division of the arts, office of cultural development, in the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism.

B. The purpose of the crafts program shall be to assist Louisiana native craftspersons to produce, promote, and market handcrafts of such high quality and such quantity with the competitive aesthetic and commercial factors to become viable economic products; to designate a hallmark of a controlled logo which will universally advertise and promote these crafts as high caliber; to integrate the crafts program into the state's tourism promotions program; and to expand the state's economic base by stimulating and sustaining the crafts cottage industry.

C. "Craft" shall mean any object of metal, fibre, wood, glass, clay, or other natural material which is produced by hand and which demonstrates originality and other artistic qualities as further determined by rules of the Louisiana State Arts Council.

Acts 1986, No. 588, §1.

{{NOTE: SEE ACTS 1986, NO. 588, §4, REGARDING EFFECTIVENESS.}}
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:881 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 881
Washington Museum and Tourist Commission
Status: in_force

A. The Washington Museum and Tourist Commission, hereinafter referred to as "the commission", is hereby created and shall be domiciled in the municipality of Washington, in the parish of St. Landry.

B. The commission shall be composed of nine members, who shall be appointed by the mayor of the town of Washington, to serve for one year terms. Any commissioner so appointed may be reappointed to serve for additional one year terms. The members of the commission shall serve without compensation. It shall hold regular meetings, prescribe rules for its operation, elect such officers as are necessary, and establish and use any identifying seals pertaining to its business. For the purposes of transacting business, five members of the board shall constitute a quorum. The commission shall oversee the Washington Museum and Tourist Center. The museum shall be open to the public as may be prescribed by the commission.

C. The commission shall maintain the museum and all exhibits and displays contained in the museum, develop and foster tourism in the town of Washington, develop and foster an interest in historic preservation, and all other items which are necessary for the conservation, preservation, and restoration of the historic and cultural resources in the town of Washington.

D. The commission may solicit and accept funds, governmental grants, donations, and contributions of lands, buildings, money, relics, works of art, or other property on behalf of and as additions to the museum either in form of loans or in the form of donations inter vivos or mortis causa, or may acquire them by purchase, lease, or otherwise, subject to the terms, conditions, or limitations contained in the instrument by which such property is acquired. However, the commission shall be empowered and authorized to enter into any and all contracts with any person, lender, or donor that it may deem fit, proper, and necessary to accept and receive such lands, buildings, money, relics, works of art, or other property on behalf of and as additions to the museum. The commission is specifically authorized to serve as beneficiary of any public trust heretofore or hereafter created for such purpose pursuant to law.

E.(1) Any property which has been deposited with the commission or the museum, by loan or otherwise, and which has been held for more than ten years, and to which no person has made claim shall be deemed to be abandoned and, notwithstanding the provisions of Chapter 1 of Title XII of Book III of the Louisiana Civil Code, shall become the property of the commission, provided that the commission has complied with the following provisions:

(2) At least once a week for two consecutive weeks, the commission shall publish in at least one newspaper of general circulation in the town of Washington and the parish of St. Landry a notice and listing of the property. The notice shall contain:

(a) The name and last known address, if any, of the last known owner or depositor of the property;

(b) A description of the property; and

(c) A statement that if proof of claim is not presented by the owner to the commission and if the owner's right to receive such property is not established to the satisfaction of the commission within sixty-five days from the date of the second published notice, the property will be considered abandoned and shall become the property of the commission.

(3) If no valid claim has been made to the property within sixty-five days from the date of the second published notice, title to the property shall vest in the commission free from all claims of the owner and all persons claiming through or under him.

F. The collections of the museum may be lent in part subject to approval by the commission. The commission shall insure proper safeguards for their maintenance and return and shall insure that proper records are kept. The collections shall be available for the use of educational projects, subject to the approval of the commission.

G.(1) The commission is organized exclusively for charitable, religious, educational, and scientific purposes, including the making of distributions to organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, or the corresponding provision of any future United States internal revenue law.

(2) No part of the net earnings or revenue of the commission shall inure to the benefit of, or be distributable to, its members, trustees, officers, or other private persons, except that the commission shall be authorized and empowered to pay reasonable compensation for services rendered and to make payments and distributions in furtherance of the purposes set forth in this Section. No substantial part of the activities of the commission shall be for the carrying on of propaganda, or otherwise attempting to influence legislation, and the commission shall not participate in, or intervene in, including the publishing or distribution of statements, any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Section, the commission shall not carry on any activities not permitted to be carried on:

(a) By a corporation exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, or the corresponding provision of any future United States internal revenue law; or

(b) By a corporation, contributions to which are deductible under Section 170(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, or the corresponding provision of any future United States internal revenue law.

H. Upon dissolution of the commission, the commission shall, after paying or making provision for the payment of all of the liabilities of the commission, dispose of all of the assets belonging to the commission exclusively for the purposes of the commission in such manner, or to such organization or organizations organized and operated exclusively for charitable, educational, religious, or scientific purposes as shall at the time be qualified as an exempt organization or organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, or the corresponding provision of any future United States internal revenue law. Any such assets not so disposed of shall be disposed by the district court for the parish of St. Landry, exclusively for such purposes or to such organization or organizations as the court shall determine, which are organized and operated for exclusively those purposes.

Acts 1990, No. 838, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:284 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 284
Commission as body politic; powers
Status: in_force

The Lafayette Parish Law Library Commission is created a body politic with the right to sue and be sued, to acquire any and all property necessary for its maintenance and operation by all lawful means, to incur debt in anticipation of its revenues, to accept gifts and donations, to establish rules and regulations for the conduct of its affairs, to employ a librarian, to require bond for the handling of its funds in an amount to be determined by it; provided, however, the commission shall operate entirely within the framework of the revenues to be derived as provided for herein and the library shall not become a charge on the public funds of the parish of Lafayette, city of Lafayette or state of Louisiana.

Added by Acts 1968, No. 416, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1005 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1005
Legislative intent
Status: in_force

The legislature hereby recognizes that it is appropriate to establish a naval museum on the Mississippi River at Kenner and that including a naval vessel of historic significance as part of such museum will be a significant factor in its effectiveness. The legislature finds that such a museum would be an excellent educational and historical facility for Louisianians, especially school children, and would also be a distinctive attraction to visitors to Louisiana and that the location of such a facility at Kenner would complement and be complemented by the many museums and other visitor attractions located there. The legislature recognizes that the museum would also pay fitting tribute to those citizens of Louisiana who participated in the naval engagements of our past wars.

Acts 1992, No. 68, §1; Acts 2014, No. 89, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:763 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 763
Appeals
Status: in_force

A. Any person or persons aggrieved by any decision, act or proceeding of an historic preservation district or landmarks commission shall have a right to apply in writing to the governing body of the governmental unit for reversal or modification thereof; and the chief executive official, or presiding officer of said governing body, shall have the right to stay all further action until said governing body may affirm a decision of the commission by majority vote of all its members. Any such appeal shall be taken in ten days from date of decision; and said governing body may consider said appeal at its next general or special meeting, but in any event, not more than forty-five days thereafter. Said governing body shall have the right to reverse, change or modify any decision of the commission only by two-thirds vote of all its members.

B. Any person or persons aggrieved by any decision of the governing body affecting said historic preservation district or a designated landmark shall have the right to file a civil suit within thirty days from date of decision in a court of competent jurisdiction under the usual rules of procedure governing same, with the right to stay orders and injunctive relief provided the situation warrants it.

Acts 1974, No. 273, §13.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:671 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 671
Legislative findings
Status: in_force

The legislature finds that:

(1) The heritage of the French-speaking people of Louisiana is one of the greatest treasures of Louisiana's rich cultural patrimony and perhaps the most significant factor in making the state's culture unique.

(2) Louisiana has a quarter of a million French-speaking citizens and a million residents of French-language heritage, and French-speaking visitors to Louisiana spend roughly one hundred million dollars annually in the state.

(3) Commercial and industrial concerns based in France have made investments of one billion eight hundred million dollars in the state and further encouragement of such investment is in the interests of the state.

(4) Providing state government services in the French language would encourage the preservation of the state's French cultural heritage for future generations, would provide important and sometimes life-sustaining services to French-speaking citizens and visitors, and would support and encourage French investment in Louisiana, and therefore, would serve not only the state's French-speaking citizens but the entire state.

Acts 2011, No. 106, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:844 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 844
Donations and grants
Status: in_force

The Louisiana Civil Rights Museum may directly, or indirectly through the board of directors of the Louisiana State Museum or the Louisiana Museum Foundation, receive donations and grants from individuals, corporations, private foundations, and local, state, and federal governmental agencies, entities, or subdivisions in order to further the provisions of this Chapter.

Acts 1999, No. 385, §1; Acts 2004, No. 731, §1, eff. July 1, 2004.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:527 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 527
Authorization and erection of historical markers and monuments
Status: in_force

A. The commission, upon its own initiative or upon petition of any subdivision of the state of Louisiana, state agency, historical society or other private non-profit scientific, educational, civic or cultural group may mark by proper monuments, tablets, or markers of proper design state landmarks and objects; except where in a specific locality or case, such a function has been given to another agency; and it may similarly mark state sites, monuments and objects important to Louisiana history or culture outside of Louisiana where consent of the appropriate governmental body having jurisdiction is given. Except as otherwise provided by law, no historical monument or marker shall be created or placed by any public or private corporation, association, society, organization or person on public property in Louisiana without the approval of the commission; and further, no official sign or marker shall be erected or renewed along any state highway unless the inscription to be placed on such sign or marker has been approved by the commission, which shall maintain a record of markers and inscriptions approved by it.

B. Nothing in R.S. 25:521-25:527 shall be interpreted as infringing upon or affecting the laws relative to the Vieux Carre Commission of New Orleans and the Orleans Parish Landmarks Commission established by Acts 85 of 1956.

Acts 1968, No. 199, §7.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:93 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 93
Sale or exchange of surplus property
Status: in_force

A. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the director of the Law Library of Louisiana may sell or exchange surplus movable property, provided that all proceeds realized from any sale or exchange shall be applied to the purchase of books, periodicals, manuscripts, papers, or any other research material for the Law Library of Louisiana.

B. For purposes of this Section, "surplus movable property" means any duplicate, superseded, obsolete or otherwise unnecessary book, periodical, manuscript, paper, or other research material in the possession of the Law Library of Louisiana.

Acts 1986, No. 610, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:380.22 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 380.22
Governing board; creation; domicile; appointment and compensation of members
Status: in_force

A. The governing board of the Louisiana State Oil and Gas Museum is hereby created in the Department of State.

B. The domicile of the board shall be in the parish of Caddo.

C.(1) The board shall be composed of members who all have a knowledge of and an interest in oil and oil production.

(2) The board shall be composed of the following members:

(a) Eleven members shall be appointed by the secretary of state from a list of fifteen names submitted by the Caddo Pine Island Oil and Historical Society.

(b) The secretary of state or his designee shall serve as a member.

(c) The museum director and the museum chief administrative officer, if any, shall each be an ex officio member of the board.

D. Each appointed member shall be confirmed by the Senate and shall serve a term concurrent with the secretary of state. Each member shall serve until his successor is appointed and takes office.

E. Members of the board, including the advisors to the board, shall serve without compensation.

Acts 1997, No. 1091, §1; Acts 2001, No. 130, §1; Acts 2020, No. 212, §1, eff. June 11, 2020.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:380.45 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 380.45
Use of collections and property
Status: in_force

Any collection or other property of the museum may, subject to approval of the board, be lent in part. The board shall ensure proper safeguards for its maintenance and return and shall ensure that proper records are kept. The collection or other property shall be available for use in educational projects, subject to the approval of the board.

Acts 2022, No. 519, §1, eff. June 16, 2022.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:761 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 761
Hardship variances
Status: in_force

Where, by reason of topographical conditions, irregularly shaped lots, or because of unusual circumstances applicable solely to the particular applicant, strict enforcement of the provisions of this Part would result in serious undue hardship particularly affecting said applicant, then the commission, in passing upon his application, shall have the power to vary or modify adherence to this Part; provided always that its requirements insure harmony with the general purposes hereof, and will not adversely affect an historic preservation district as a whole or any designated landmark.

Acts 1974, No. 273, §11.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:831 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 831
Establishment and location
Status: in_force

The Louisiana Cypress Sawmill Museum is hereby established as the official state cypress sawmill museum. The museum shall be domiciled in Patterson, Louisiana, and shall be operated, managed, and funded by the office of the state museum of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism.

Acts 1997, No. 722, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:785 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 785
Applications; certificates of appropriateness
Status: in_force

A. All applications for certificates of appropriateness shall be in writing and shall be directed to the office.

B. The office shall issue certificates of appropriateness for all applications which the office determines do not require substantive changes and which comply with the standards adopted and promulgated by the office.

C. Except as otherwise provided in this Section, the office shall hold a public hearing on each application. Notice of the time and place of the hearing shall be given to each applicant and shall be published in the official journal of the state. The hearing shall be held not less than seven days after the notice has been published and transmitted to the applicant. The hearing shall be held in accordance with the provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act governing rule making hearings.

D. The office shall render a decision on each application not later than fourteen days after the public hearing. Each applicant shall be given written notice of the decision and the notice shall set forth therein the reasons therefor. The office may approve an application by issuing a certificate of appropriateness, may deny an application, or may make such recommendations for changes and modification of the application as the office deems necessary to enable the applicant to comply with the standards adopted and promulgated by the office.

Added by Acts 1979, No. 650, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:381 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 381
Orleans Parish Landmarks Commission
Status: in_force

The Orleans Parish Landmarks Commission is hereby created to be composed of seven members to be appointed by the governor for terms of four years. All members of the commission shall be residents of the parish of Orleans one of whom shall be a member of the Louisiana Landmarks Society, Inc.

Acts 1956, No. 85, §1. Amended by Acts 1962, No. 496, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:31 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 31
Legislative findings, statement of purpose
Status: in_force

A. The legislature finds that self-improvement, self-government, and economic self-sufficiency for all Louisiana citizens can be gained through the power of knowledge, and libraries are an important and irreplaceable source of such knowledge. Accordingly, the legislature finds that:

(1) Louisiana citizens have a right to adequate information to meet their individual needs.

(2) Louisiana citizens have a right to have their informational needs met in a timely manner even if the material is not in their local library.

(3) Louisiana citizens have a right to physically accessible, functional, convenient, and well-equipped libraries.

(4) Louisiana citizens have a right to be able to locate and use all information sources available.

(5) Louisiana citizens have a right to a wide range of services provided by professionally trained librarians and support staff.

B. It is, therefore, the determination of the legislature that all citizens of Louisiana shall have convenient access to all library resources, facilities, and services. In order to provide such access and services it is essential that the funds be provided to assist libraries in meeting these needs. Therefore, it is the purpose of this Subpart to provide for the establishment of a program through which the State Library of Louisiana may receive monies to expand and enhance its collections of materials for statewide loan, and award monies to local public libraries to expand and enhance their resources and the use thereof.

Acts 1992, No. 210, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:804 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 804
Transfer of functions
Status: in_force

By authority of Section 32 of Article III of the Constitution of 1921, the boards, commissions, councils, agencies, and offices enumerated in R.S. 25:802 are hereby transferred to the State Department of Art, Historical and Cultural Preservation, and all of the functions, programs, and operations of every kind of said boards, commissions, councils, departments and agencies, sometimes hereinafter referred to as agencies, hereafter shall be exercised and be performed by the director.

Added by Acts 1972, No. 425, §1, operative Jan. 1, 1973.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:380.53 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 380.53
Duties and powers of the board
Status: in_force

A. A majority of the board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of official business. All official actions of the board shall require the affirmative vote of a majority of the members present and voting.

B. The board shall:

(1) Meet at least three times a year at the call of the board chairman.

(2)(a) Create an executive committee consisting of the chairman and vice chairman of the board and other board members as the board may determine.

(b) A majority of the members of the committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. However, when the board has delegated to the committee full power to act with respect to a matter, affirmative action by a majority of the entire committee membership shall be required.

(c) The committee shall meet at the call of the board chairman.

(d) The committee shall consider such matters as are referred to it by the board. It shall execute such orders and resolutions as shall be assigned to it at any meeting of the board, and it shall also take such action as is necessary when an emergency requiring immediate action arises during the interim between board meetings. All acts of the committee shall be submitted to the board for ratification or rejection at its next meeting except in matters in which the board has delegated to the committee full power to act.

(3) Adopt bylaws, including but not limited to the following:

(a) The election and responsibilities of the officers of the board, including a chairman and vice chairman, who shall serve terms of two years.

(b) The selection and responsibilities of advisors to the board. The board may appoint not more than five advisors who shall serve without compensation.

(c) The appointment, duties, and functions of standing and special committees of the board, including the appointment of nonboard members to such committees and their functions.

(4) Advise the secretary of state on all matters relating to the operations of the Louisiana Delta Music Museum.

(5) Establish and use an identifying seal pertaining to museum business.

(6) Perform such other functions as are otherwise provided by this Chapter and R.S. 36:744(F).

C. The board may individually, or in cooperation with any nonprofit corporation established to support the Louisiana Delta Music Museum, seek and expend funds from any source, public or private, to support programs of the museum.

Acts 2001, No. 850, §1; Acts 2020, No. 212, §1, eff. June 11, 2020; Acts 2021, No. 20, §4.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:756 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 756
Creation of landmarks and historic district commissions
Status: in_force

After final consideration of the report and recommendations of the planning and/or zoning agency or commission or of the historic preservation study committee, whichever the case may be, and upon determining that creation and establishment of a historic preservation district and/or a landmarks commission is in the public interest, the governing body may pass an ordinance or law creating and establishing a historic preservation district and/or landmarks commission. Prior to the enactment of any regulations authorized herein, the planning and/or zoning agency or commission, or the historic preservation study committee, whichever the case may be, shall submit suggestions to the governing body for a proposed ordinance or law, designed to implement and carry out the recommendations of said agency, commission, or committee and the provisions of the Part. The governing body may then review said suggestions, and upon determining that the adoption of said suggestions or alternatives is desirable, the governing body may have prepared and may pass an ordinance, law or resolution, whichever may be applicable, enacting appropriate regulations in accordance with the provisions of this Part, and in accordance with the following guidelines, terms and conditions:

(1) The chief executive official of the governmental unit shall appoint an historic preservation district commission and/or landmarks commission consisting of not more than fifteen electors as designated in the ordinance residing in the area served by the governmental unit, for four year terms each except that the terms of members of the first commission shall be staggered as set forth in the ordinance; and both they and their successors shall serve for four year terms thereafter. In making appointments, preference may be given as far as possible to members of historic, cultural, educational, archaeological, architectural, artistic and preservation organizations. Said appointments shall be subject to approval by a majority vote of the governing body. Only one historic preservation district commission and one landmarks commission or one commission combining both the district and landmark functions may be established by a governmental unit except as prescribed under R.S. 25:767.

(2) A commission shall elect annually from its own number a chairman, vice-chairman and any other officers which it deems appropriate. All members shall serve without compensation. Reasonable rules and regulations not inconsistent with this Part may be adopted.

(3) Subject to appropriations by the governing body, services of compensated clerical and technical assistants may be retained. Donations, trusts, contributions and gifts may be accepted by the historic preservation district or landmarks commission provided that they are used to further the purposes for which it exists.

(4) Vacancies shall be filled by appointment in the same manner as the original appointments and any member may be appointed for another term or terms.

(5) Any member may be recalled at any time by the governing body for gross inefficiency, fraud or studied neglect, but only after an open hearing and upon notice specifying the complaint involved.

Acts 1974, No. 273, §6.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:214.3 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 214.3
Lincoln Parish Library Board of Control; membership; representation
Status: in_force

A. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Chapter to the contrary, the Lincoln Parish Police Jury is authorized to appoint two additional members to the Lincoln Parish Library Board of Control.

B. The library board of control members appointed pursuant to this Section shall cause the representation of the board to reflect the makeup of the parish population and shall be appointed to serve for a term of three and four years respectively, but thereafter, each board member shall be appointed for a term of five years, except that vacancies occurring otherwise than by the expiration of their term shall be filled for the unexpired term in the same manner as the original appointment.

Acts 2001, No. 784, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:380.157 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 380.157
Secretary of state; rules and regulations
Status: in_force

The secretary of state may adopt policies, rules, and regulations for the operation of the museum in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act.

Acts 2020, No. 212, §1, eff. June 11, 2020.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:214.2 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 214.2
Rapides Parish Library Board of Control; membership; representation
Status: in_force

A. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Chapter to the contrary, the Rapides Parish Police Jury is authorized to appoint two additional members to the Rapides Parish Library Board of Control.

B. The commissioners appointed pursuant to this Section shall cause the representation on the board to reflect the representation of the nine police jury districts and shall be appointed to serve for terms of one, two, three, and four years, respectively, but thereafter, each commissioner shall be appointed for a term of five years, except that vacancies occurring otherwise than by the expiration of their term shall be filled for the unexpired term in the same manner as the original appointment.

Acts 1989, No. 98, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1241 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1241
Legislative intent; scope
Status: in_force

A. The legislature hereby recognizes that it is appropriate to establish a museum at Grambling State University to honor the legendary football coach, Eddie G. Robinson.

B. The purpose of such museum shall be to collect, preserve, and exhibit, as an educational resource, objects of art, documents, archives, and other artifacts that reflect the history of the life and coaching domain of Eddie G. Robinson.

Acts 1999, No. 1368, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:932 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 932
Legislative declaration of intent
Status: in_force

The legislature hereby finds the demolition, destruction, and damage of historic cemeteries and isolated graves a disrespectful practice. The legislature further finds that existing state laws do not provide for the adequate protection of historic cemeteries that are not under the jurisdiction of the Louisiana Cemetery Board, are not on state lands, and are not solely comprised of unmarked graves. Cemeteries are considered by most cultures to be sacred spaces. In addition to being resting places for our dead, many of Louisiana's cemeteries are repositories of significant examples of art, architecture, and archaeology as well as containing the history of their respective communities. The importance of cemeteries should not be taken lightly, as these significant elements represent a substantial tourist attraction for the state of Louisiana, and also present an endless source of data for historians, taphologists, anthropologists, archaeologists, and genealogists that collectively lead us to a better understanding of our own culture.

Acts 2010, No. 707, §1, eff. June 29, 2010.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1270.1 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1270.1
Short title
Status: in_force

This Chapter shall be known as the Neighborhood Enhancement Program Act.

Acts 2004, No. 908, §1, eff. upon appropriation of funds by the legislature.

NOTE: Acts 2004, No. 908 (if it becomes effective) effective until June 30, 2010, and void thereafter.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:812 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 812
State historical trusts
Status: in_force

A. The director of the State Art, Historical, and Cultural Preservation Agency shall have the power and authority of accepting public trusts created pursuant to R.S. 9:2341 through R.S. 9:2346 wherein the purpose of the trust is the preservation, maintenance, restoration, or operation of historic properties and the beneficiary thereof is the state or said agency.

B. The director of the State Art, Historical, and Cultural Preservation Agency may create and establish one or more private trusts for the preservation, maintenance, restoration, or operation of historic properties which may be acquired by said trust and which shall be subject generally to the provisions of R.S. 9:2271 through R.S. 9:2337 pertaining to charitable, benevolent, or eleemosynary trusts.

C. The director may establish programs for the encouragement of the establishment of the trusts referred to in this Section and may designate such trusts as state historical trusts. The director may appoint the trustees of such state historical trusts as one or more advisory councils pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 25:802(B)(2).

Added by Acts 1975, No. 592, §2, eff. Aug. 1, 1975.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:631 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 631
Interstate Library Compact; adoption
Status: in_force

The Interstate Library Compact is hereby enacted into law and entered into by this state with all states legally joining therein in the form substantially as follows:

INTERSTATE LIBRARY COMPACT

Article I. Policy and Purpose

Because the desire for the services provided by libraries transcends governmental boundaries and can most effectively be satisfied by giving such services to communities and people regardless of jurisdictional lines, it is the policy of the states party to this compact to cooperate and share their responsibilities; to authorize cooperation and sharing with respect to those types of library facilities and services which can be more economically or efficiently developed and maintained on a cooperative basis, and to authorize cooperation and sharing among localities, states and others in providing joint or cooperative library services in areas where the distribution of population or of existing and potential library resources make the provision of library service on an interstate basis the most effective way of providing adequate and efficient service.

Article II. Definitions

As used in this compact:

(a) "Public library agency" means any unit or agency of local or state government operating or having power to operate a library.

(b) "Private library agency" means any nongovernmental entity which operates or assumes a legal obligation to operate a library.

(c) "Library agreement" means a contract establishing an interstate library district pursuant to this compact or providing for the joint or cooperative furnishing of library services.

Article III. Interstate Library Districts

(a) Any one or more public library agencies in a party state in cooperation with any public library agency or agencies in one or more other party states may establish and maintain an interstate library district. Subject to the provisions of this compact and any other laws of the party states which pursuant hereto remain applicable, such district may establish, maintain and operate some or all of the library facilities and services for the area concerned in accordance with the terms of a library agreement therefor. Any private library agency or agencies within an interstate library district may cooperate therewith, assume duties, responsibilities and obligations thereto, and receive benefits therefrom as provided in any library agreement to which such agency or agencies become party.

(b) Within an interstate library district, and as provided by a library agreement, the performance of library functions may be undertaken on a joint or cooperative basis or may be undertaken by means of one or more arrangements between or among public or private library agencies for the extension of library privileges to the use of facilities or services operated or rendered by one or more of the individual library agencies.

(c) If a library agreement provides for joint establishment, maintenance or operation of library facilities or services by an interstate library district, such district shall have power to do any one or more of the following in accordance with such library agreement:

1. Undertake, administer and participate in programs or arrangements for securing, lending or servicing of books and other publications, any other materials suitable to be kept or made available by libraries, library equipment or for the dissemination of information about libraries, the value and significance of particular items therein, and the use thereof.

2. Accept for any of its purposes under this compact any and all donations, and grants of money, equipment, supplies, materials and services (conditional or otherwise), from any state or the United States or any subdivision or agency thereof, or interstate agency, or from any institution, person, firm or corporation, and receive, utilize and dispose of the same.

3. Operate mobile library units or equipment for the purpose of rendering book-mobile service within the district.

4. Employ professional, technical, clerical and other personnel, and fix terms of employment, compensation and other appropriate benefits and, where desirable, provide for the in-service training of such personnel.

5. Sue and be sued in any court of competent jurisdiction.

6. Acquire, hold and dispose of any real or personal property or any interest or interests therein as may be appropriate to the rendering of library service.

7. Construct, maintain and operate a library, including any appropriate branches thereof.

8. Do such other things as may be incidental to or appropriate for the carrying out of any of the foregoing powers.

Article IV. Interstate Library Districts; Governing Board

(a) An interstate library district which establishes, maintains or operates any facilities or services in its own right shall have a governing board which shall direct the affairs of the district and act for it in all matters relating to its business. Each participating public library agency in the district shall be represented on the governing board, which shall be organized and conduct its business in accordance with provision therefor in the library agreement. But in no event shall a governing board meet less often than twice a year.

(b) Any private library agency or agencies party to a library agreement establishing an interstate library district may be represented on or advise with the governing board of the district in such manner as the library agreement may provide.

Article V. State Library Agency Cooperation

Any two or more state library agencies of two or more of the party states may undertake and conduct joint or cooperative library programs, render joint or cooperative library services, and enter into and perform arrangements for the cooperative or joint acquisition, use, housing, and disposition of items or collections of materials which, by reason of expense, rarity, specialized nature or infrequency of demand therefor would be appropriate for central collection and shared use. Any such programs, services or arrangements may include provision for the exercise on a cooperative or joint basis of any power exercisable by an interstate library district and an agreement embodying any such program, service or arrangement shall contain provisions covering the subjects detailed in Article VI of this compact for interstate library agreements.

Article VI. Library Agreement

(a) In order to provide for any joint or cooperative undertaking pursuant to this compact, public and private library agencies may enter into library agreements. Any agreement executed pursuant to the provisions of this compact shall, as among the parties to the agreement:

1. Detail the specific nature of the services, programs, facilities, arrangements or properties to which it is applicable.

2. Provide for the allocation of costs and other financial responsibilities.

3. Specify the respective rights, duties, obligations and liabilities of the parties.

4. Set forth the terms and conditions for duration, renewal, termination, abrogation, disposal of joint or common property, if any, and all other matters which may be appropriate to the proper effectuation and performance of the agreement.

(b) No public or private library agency shall undertake to exercise itself, or jointly with any other library agency, by means of a library agreement any power prohibited to such agency by the constitution, or statutes of its state.

(c) No library agreement shall become effective until filed with the compact administrator of each state involved and approved in accordance with Article VII of this compact.

Article VII. Approval of Library Agreements

(a) Every library agreement made pursuant to this compact shall, prior to and as a condition precedent to its entry into force, be submitted to the attorney general of each state in which a public library agency party thereto is situated, who shall determine whether the agreement is in proper form and compatible with the laws of his state. The attorneys general shall approve any agreement submitted to them unless they find that it does not meet the conditions set forth herein, and they shall detail in writing addressed to the governing bodies of the public library agencies concerned the specific respects in which the proposed agreement fails to meet the requirements of law. Failure to disapprove an agreement submitted hereunder within ninety days of its submission shall constitute approval thereof.

(b) In the event a library agreement made pursuant to this compact deals in whole or in part with the provision of services or facilities with regard to which an officer or agency of the state government has constitutional or statutory powers of control, the agreement shall, as a condition precedent to its entry into force, be submitted to the state officer or agency having such power of control and shall be approved or disapproved by him or it as to all matters within his or its jurisdiction in the same manner and subject to the same requirements governing the action of the attorneys general pursuant to paragraph (a) of this article. This requirement of submission and approval shall be in addition to and not in substitution for the requirement of submission to and approval by the attorneys general.

Article VIII. Other Laws Applicable

Nothing in this compact or in any library agreement shall be construed to supersede, alter or otherwise impair any obligation imposed on any library by otherwise applicable law, nor to authorize the transfer or disposition of any property held in trust by a library agency in a manner contrary to the terms of such trust.

Article IX. Allocations and Aid

(a) Any public library agency party to a library agreement may allocate funds to the interstate library district established thereby in the same manner and to the same extent as to a library wholly maintained by it.

(b) Subject to the provisions of the library agreement pursuant to which it functions and the laws of the states in which such district is situated, an interstate library district may claim and receive any state and federal aid which may be available to library agencies.

Article X. Compact Administrator

Each state shall designate a compact administrator with whom copies of all library agreements to which his state or any public library agency thereof is party shall be filed. The administrator shall have such other powers as may be conferred upon him by the laws of his state and may consult and cooperate with the compact administrators of other party states and take such steps as may effectuate the purposes of this compact. If the laws of a party state so provide, such state may designate one or more deputy compact administrators in addition to its compact administrator.

Article XI. Entry into Force and Withdrawal

(a) This compact shall enter into force and effect immediately upon its enactment into law by any two states. Thereafter, it shall enter into force and effect as to any other state upon the enactment thereof by such state.

(b) This compact shall continue in force with respect to a party state and remain binding upon such state until six months after such state has given notice to each other party state of the repeal thereof. Such withdrawal shall not be construed to relieve any party to a library agreement entered into pursuant to this compact from any obligation of that agreement prior to the end of its duration as provided therein.

Article XII. Construction and Severability

This compact shall be liberally construed so as to effectuate the purposes thereof. The provisions of this compact shall be severable, and if any phrase, clause, sentence or provision of this compact is declared to be contrary to the constitution of any party state or of the United States or the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person or circumstance is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this compact and the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person or circumstance shall not be affected thereby. If this compact is held contrary to the constitution of any state party thereto, the compact shall remain in full force and effect as to the remaining states and in full force and effect as to the state affected as to all severable matters.

Added by Acts 1968, No. 216, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:852 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 852
Staffing
Status: in_force

The adjutant general shall appoint such employees as are needed, including a director who shall reside in New Orleans, a curator of exhibits who shall be experienced in museum work, establish and use any identifying seal pertaining to museum business, and make an annual report which shall be included as a part of his report to the governor. The museum shall be open to the public as may be prescribed by the adjutant general.

Added by Acts 1974, No. 688, §1; Acts 1997, No. 467, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:380.44 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 380.44
Donations and loans; disposition of property
Status: in_force

A. The board may individually or in cooperation with any nonprofit corporation established to support the museum and its activities solicit and accept funds, governmental grants, donations, and contributions of lands, buildings, monies, artifacts, relics, audio and video recordings, motion picture films, works of art, or other property on behalf of and as additions to the museum either in the form of loans or in the form of donations inter vivos or mortis causa, and the department may acquire them by purchase, lease, or otherwise, subject to the terms, conditions, or limitations contained in the instrument by which such property is acquired. However, the museum, through the department or a nonprofit formed to support the programs and activities of the museum, may enter into any and all contracts with any person, lender, or donor that it deems fit, proper, and necessary to accept and receive such lands, buildings, monies, artifacts, relics, audio and video recordings, motion picture films, works of art, or other property on behalf of, as additions to, or for the benefit of the museum. The museum may serve as the beneficiary of any public or private trust or insurance policy created for such purpose, pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 9:2341 et seq.

B. The board is granted the authority of deaccession with respect to any collection of the museum, and for such purpose is exempted from laws relative to the sale or disposal of surplus property. The board shall establish policies and procedures necessary to carry out this authority in an orderly manner.

C.(1) Any property that has been deposited with the museum by loan or otherwise, that has been held by the museum for more than ten years, and that no person has made claim shall be deemed to be abandoned and, notwithstanding the provisions of Chapter 1 of Title XII of Book III of the Civil Code, shall escheat to and become the property of the museum, if the board complies with Paragraph (2) of this Subsection.

(2)(a) For property deposited with the museum on loan, the museum shall contact the lender of the property by written notice sent by certified mail to the last known address of the lender. If the written notice by certified mail is returned for any reason, the museum shall make a reasonable and diligent effort to provide actual notice to the lender of the property by:

(i) Contacting the lender of the property by first class mail at the last known address of the lender.

(ii) At least once each week for two consecutive weeks, the board shall cause to be published in the official journal of the parish of the last known address of the lender of the property, and, if the last known address is in a parish other than Orleans, in at least one newspaper of general circulation in the parish of Orleans, a notice and listing of the property as provided in Subparagraph (c) of this Paragraph.

(b) For property held by the museum that was not deposited on loan, at least once each week for two consecutive weeks, the board shall cause to be published in at least one newspaper of general circulation in the parish of Orleans a notice and listing of the property.

(c) Notices mailed or published pursuant to this Subsection shall contain:

(i) The name and last known address, if any, of the last known owner or depositor of the property.

(ii) A description of the property.

(iii) A statement that if proof of claim is not presented by the claimant to the board and if the claimant's right to receive such property is not established to the satisfaction of the board within sixty-five days from the date of the second published notice, the property will be deemed to be abandoned and shall become the property of the museum.

(3) If no valid claim has been made to the property within sixty-five days from the date of the second published notice, title to the property shall escheat to and vest in the museum free from all claims.

Acts 2022, No. 519, §1, eff. June 16, 2022.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:799 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 799
Creation of the French Quarter Management District
Status: in_force

A. Creation. (1) There is hereby created within the city of New Orleans a body politic and corporate which shall be known as the French Quarter Management District. The district shall be a political subdivision of the state, as defined in the Constitution of Louisiana, to exist until June 30, 2033, unless such date is extended by law.

(2) The district is created to provide the following functions:

(a) Enhancing public safety, reducing homelessness, infrastructure improvements, and sanitation within the district by financing supplemental safety and sanitation services as the board deems appropriate.

(b) Providing supplemental resources for the enforcement of laws and regulations that relate to the quality of life for tourists, residents, and businesses within the district as the board deems appropriate.

(c) Engaging in strategic planning, business and commercial development activities, administering capital improvement funds, and administering programs.

(d) Taking such actions as may be advisable to enhance commercial, civic, and cultural activity within the district, to promote and aid in the conservation and preservation of the district's quaint historic nature, character, qualities, and architecture, to foster quality events and quality of life in the district, to restore regional character to the district, to attract locals and tourists to visit the district, to facilitate and promote the development and improvement of public infrastructure within the district, and to encourage new residents to live in the district.

B. Boundaries. The district shall be comprised of the area of the city of New Orleans lying within the following boundaries: the Mississippi River, the center line of Canal Street, the rear property line of the properties fronting on the lake side of North Rampart Street, the rear property line of the properties fronting on the downriver side of Esplanade Avenue to the Mississippi River.

C. Governance. (1) The district shall be governed by a board of commissioners consisting of thirteen members as follows:

(a) The chairman of the Vieux Carre Commission or his designee.

(b) One person who is domiciled and a qualified elector in the district, appointed by the Vieux Carre Property Owners, Residents and Associates, Incorporated.

(c) One person who either owns one or more restaurants in the district or is a corporate representative of a company owning and operating one or more restaurants in the district, appointed by the Louisiana Restaurant Association, Incorporated.

(d) One person who is either employed full-time, or owns or operates a hotel, in the district between the center line of Canal Street and the middle of Iberville Street, appointed by the Greater New Orleans Hotel and Lodging Association, Incorporated.

(e) One person who is either employed full-time, or owns or operates a hotel, in the Vieux Carre or Faubourg Marigny sections of the district, appointed by the Greater New Orleans Hotel and Lodging Association, Incorporated.

(f) One person who is either employed full-time, or owns or operates a business, in the district, appointed by the French Quarter Business Association of Louisiana.

(g) One person who is either employed full-time, or owns or operates a business in the district, appointed by the French Quarter Business League.

(h) One person who owns a business headquartered in the district, appointed by the mayor of New Orleans.

(i) One person who is domiciled and a qualified elector in either of the parts of the Vieux Carre designated as VCR-1 or VCR-2, appointed by the mayor of New Orleans.

(j) One person who is domiciled and a qualified elector in the district, appointed by the French Quarter Citizens, Incorporated.

(k) One person who is domiciled and a qualified elector in the district, appointed by North Rampart Main Street, Incorporated.

(l) One person who is employed full-time or owns or operates a business, in the district, appointed by the New Orleans Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau, Incorporated.

(m) One person who is domiciled, employed full-time, or owns or operates a business, in the district, appointed by the New Orleans City Council member representing City Council District "C".

(2) Any qualification or condition that is a prerequisite for a member's appointment to, or membership on, the board shall be maintained throughout the member's term of office and membership on the board. Any board member who, during the member's term of office, fails to maintain any such qualification or condition shall be automatically disqualified from membership on the board and the office shall become vacant. Prior to the board taking action to disqualify a member and fill such vacancy, at least two weeks written notice shall be given by the board to the appointing authority of the member. The vacancy may be filled simultaneous with the occurrence of the vacancy.

(3) Except for the member provided for by Subparagraph (1)(a) of this Subsection, the members of the board shall serve four-year staggered terms. The initial appointees shall draw lots to determine their terms of office: three members shall serve a two-year term, three members shall serve a three-year term, three members shall serve a four-year term, and three members shall serve a five-year term.

(4) Any member who misses more than fifty percent of the board's regular meetings in any calendar year shall be disqualified and removed automatically from office and that person's position shall be vacant as of the first day of the next calendar month. Prior to such a vacancy or disqualification occurring, at least two weeks written notice shall be given by the board to the appointing authority. Such vacancy may be filled simultaneously with the occurrence of the vacancy. The former member shall not be eligible for reappointment until expiration of the balance of the vacated term.

(5) Any vacancy in the membership of the board occurring by reason of the expiration of the term of office, death, resignation, disqualification, or otherwise shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment.

(6) Board members shall serve without pay or per diem. The board may reimburse any member for reasonable and necessary expenses actually incurred with the authorization of the board in the performance of duties on behalf of the district.

(7) The board shall have the power to organize and reorganize the executive, administrative, clerical, and other departments and forces of the district, and to fix the duties, powers, and compensation of all employees, agents, and consultants of the district.

(8) The board shall elect yearly from its numbers, a chairman, vice chairman, secretary, and treasurer and shall establish their duties as may be regulated by rules adopted by the board. The board shall meet in regular session no less than six times a year and may meet in special session as convened by the chairman or upon written notice of six members, upon giving at least seventy-two hours written notice to all members. A majority of the board members, not including vacancies, shall constitute a quorum. Except as provided in Paragraph (9) of this Subsection, actions of the board require approval by the affirmative vote of a majority of the members present and voting.

(9) No action of the board shall be authorized on any of the following, unless approved by a majority plus one of the total board membership:

(a) The adoption of bylaws and other rules and regulations for conduct of the district's business.

(b) The hiring and firing of the district's administrator, who may be the administrator of the Downtown Development District.

(c) The adoption or amendment of the annual budget.

(d) The election of officers.

(e) The adoption or amendment of action plans or policy.

(10) The board shall cause minutes and a record to be kept of all its proceedings. The board shall select a newspaper of general circulation within its territorial jurisdiction as its official journal in which it shall publish all official notices as are required by law.

(11) All board meetings shall be in accordance with the Open Meetings Law.

D.(1) In addition to the powers and duties elsewhere granted in this Section, the board is hereby granted and shall have and may exercise all powers necessary or convenient for the carrying out of its objectives and purposes, including but not limited to the following:

(a) To sue and be sued, and as such, to stand in judgment.

(b) To adopt, use, and alter at will a corporate seal.

(c) To acquire by gift, grant, purchase, lease, or otherwise and to hold and use any property, real, personal, mixed, tangible, intangible, movable, or immovable, or any interest therein, necessary or desirable for carrying out the objects and purposes of the district.

(d) To sell, transfer, lease or convey any property acquired by it, or any interest therein, at any time to accomplish the objects and purposes of the district subject to applicable law. Any such sale, transfer, lease or conveyance shall provide for a fair and equitable return of revenue to the district.

(e) To enter into contracts to achieve the district's objectives and purposes.

(f) To appoint officers, agents, and employees, prescribe their duties, and fix their compensation.

(g) To enter into cooperative endeavors or other contractual arrangement with the Downtown Development District for the purposes of providing administration, management, and operation services for the district and to provide for reasonable compensation for such services which the Downtown Development District is hereby authorized to enter into.

(h) To establish such funds or accounts as are necessary to conduct the affairs of the district.

(i) To adopt rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this Part. Any rule or regulation promulgated or adopted by the board shall be subject to legislative oversight by the House Commerce Committee and the Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and International Affairs in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act.

(2) Notwithstanding any power or authority granted elsewhere in this Part, the board shall have no power or authority:

(a) To supersede the home rule powers and functions of the city.

(b) Related to creating bond indebtedness, exercising eminent domain, zoning, regulating historic preservation or land use, permitting, or prosecuting or citing violations. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the board shall have the power and authority to prosecute an adjudication and to cite violations if the governing authority of the city of New Orleans delegates such power and authority to the board.

(3) The board shall submit a report to the House Commerce Committee and the Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and International Affairs, no later than October first of each year, relative to the activities and finances of the district during the immediately preceding fiscal year. The committees may also review the activities or finances of the district at such times as either or both committees deem appropriate.

E.(1) All powers of the board shall be exercised for the best interest of the district to aid in the improvement of public safety, quality of life, and infrastructure in the district, to aid in the preservation of its history, character, charm, and architecture, to beautify its appearance, to address its hospitality needs and its transportation and parking concerns, and to increase its marketability and its tourism and residential appeal.

(2) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, this Part shall apply to the Vieux Carre section of the city. However, prior to any work of the board or the district on, abutting or affecting the exterior of a building or a public sidewalk, street, or space in the Vieux Carre, or the appearance of the Vieux Carre, the proposed work shall be submitted to the Vieux Carre Commission for its recommendation and approval.

(3) The board, the district, or both shall obtain permits as necessary and appropriate.

(4) Any additional security patrols, public or private, or any other security or other services or betterments provided by the district shall be supplemental to existing personnel and services to be provided in the district by the state or the city of New Orleans or their departments or agencies, or by other political subdivisions.

F. Funding. The board may apply for, contract for, receive, and expend for its purposes any appropriation or grant from the state, its political subdivisions, the federal government, or any other public or private source.

G. Specifically included, though not limited hereby, under the purposes, objects, and powers of the district are the following within the district:

(1) Creating and maintaining public restroom facilities.

(2) Beautifying the district, improving its streetscapes and the quality of its frontage, and making cosmetic improvements within the district.

(3) Enhancing the district's walkability and pedestrian-friendly environment.

(4) Revitalizing and nurturing cultural and historical features, preservation, and cultural tourism.

(5) Providing facade grants and incentives to utilize vacant buildings, upper floors, and land.

(6) Addressing transportation concerns.

(7) Facilitating parking and mobility planning, strategies, and management.

(8) Improving commercial and residential vitality and developing and implementing commercial planning, marketing, and recruiting strategies.

(9) Facilitating lighting and signage upgrades, repairs, and replacements.

(10) Aiding in the repair and upkeep of sidewalks, streets, and related infrastructure.

(11) Aiding in video camera installation and monitoring.

(12) Recruiting public amenities and services.

(13) Fostering visually stimulating and quality pedestrian experiences.

(14) Fostering regional and district character.

(15) Facilitating the removal and prevention of graffiti.

(16) Enhancing and providing dedicated public safety, reducing homelessness, infrastructure enhancement, and sanitation within the district by financing supplemental safety and sanitation services.

(17) Providing supplemental resources for the enforcement of laws and regulations that relate to the quality of life for tourists and visitors within the district.

H. Nothing in the Part is intended nor shall be deemed to change or affect the structure or organization or the particular distribution and redistribution of the powers and functions of the home rule charter of the city.

I. Subdistricts.

(1) The district shall consist of four subdistricts: the Vieux Carre, the Iberville Corridor, the Treme, and the Faubourg Marigny.

(2) The Vieux Carre subdistrict shall be comprised of the area of the district lying within the following boundaries: the Mississippi River, the center line of Iberville Street, the center line of North Rampart Street, the center line of Esplanade Avenue to the Mississippi River.

(3) The Iberville Corridor subdistrict shall be comprised of the area of the district lying within the following boundaries: the Mississippi River, the center line of Canal Street, the center line of North Rampart Street, the center line of Iberville Street to the Mississippi River.

(4) The Treme subdistrict shall be comprised of the area of the district lying within the following boundaries: the center line of Canal Street, the rear property line of the properties fronting on the lake side of North Rampart Street, the rear property line of the properties fronting on the down river side of Esplanade Avenue, the center line of North Rampart Street to the center line of Canal Street.

(5) The Faubourg Marigny subdistrict shall be comprised of the area of the district lying within the following boundaries: the Mississippi River, the center line of Esplanade Avenue, the center line of North Rampart Street, the rear property line of the properties fronting on the down river side of Esplanade Avenue to the Mississippi River, the Frenchmen Street corridor beginning with the intersection at the center line of Esplanade Avenue and ending at Royal Street, comprising the 400 block through 600 block of Frenchmen Street.

J. Budget. (1) The board of commissioners shall adopt an annual budget in accordance with the Local Government Budget Act, R.S. 39:1301 et seq. No less than fifteen percent of the annual budget shall be dedicated to public safety, reducing homelessness, and infrastructure enhancements.

(2) The district shall be subject to audit by the legislative auditor pursuant to R.S. 24:513.

(3) Repealed by Acts 2011, No. 304, §2.

K. Miscellaneous. (1) To the extent not prohibited by applicable law, the district may:

(a) Defend and indemnify a board member against claims and liabilities arising out of the performance of his duties for the district as may be provided in the bylaws adopted by the district.

(b) Procure insurance against the claims and liabilities or pay for them as an operating expense of the district out of the funds of the district obtained from any source.

(c) Utilize the city of New Orleans, as well as contract with other entities, for purposes of procuring services for the district.

(2) A person who serves as a member of the board or a committee of the district shall not be individually liable for any act or omission as provided in R.S. 9:2792.4 or any other provision of law.

(3) The district may procure by informal bid a public work with a value of one hundred fifty thousand dollars or less.

(4) When the city of New Orleans, due to a lack of city-employed staff or a lawfully contracted vendor, cannot provide sanitation services within the French Quarter at a level reasonably commensurate with historic practices, the district may procure its own emergency contract to ensure continuation of services within its boundaries. The costs for emergency sanitation services procured pursuant to this Section shall be reimbursed by the city of New Orleans. The emergency contract procured by the district shall continue until such time as the city resumes service through its own employees or pursuant to a lawfully procured and executed contract.

Acts 2007, No. 280, §1, eff. July 6, 2007; Acts 2008, No. 782, §1; Acts 2009, No. 490, §1, eff. July 10, 2009; Acts 2011, No. 304, §§1, 2; Acts 2014, No. 832, §6; Acts 2019, No. 153, §1; Acts 2024, No. 766, §1, eff. June 19, 2024; Acts 2025, No. 252, §1; Acts 2025, No. 445, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:954 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 954
Prohibited acts
Status: in_force

Except as otherwise permitted by law:

(1) The possession of human remains is prohibited.

(2) It shall be unlawful to trade in, discard, or destroy human remains.

Acts 2016, No. 531, §1, eff. June 17, 2016.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1281 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1281
Legislative finding
Status: in_force

The Legislature of Louisiana finds that:

(1) There is a need to educate and inform the public as to the history and background of American and Louisiana law.

(2) America and Louisiana's religious history plays an important role in the background of our American and Louisiana law.

(3) The role of religion in the constitutional history of both America and Louisiana is acknowledged by historians.

(4) The basic knowledge of American legal history is important to the formation of civic virtue in our society.

(5) The courts have provided vital direction to the Legislature of Louisiana on how to approach the display of historical documents.

(6) The Legislature of Louisiana now endorses the prolongation of a uniform, sound, distinct, and appropriate presentation of the story of the role of religion in the constitutional history of America and Louisiana, which may be publicly displayed in court houses and other state and local buildings throughout the state of Louisiana.

Acts 2006, No. 602, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:122 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 122
Establishment of depositories; administration of depository system; documents; rules and regulations
Status: in_force

A. The state librarian shall be responsible for establishing a system of depositories for state public documents, and for the deposit and distribution of state public documents to the depositories.

B. The state librarian shall adopt and promulgate rules and regulations, and enter into agreements with depositories, as necessary to implement the provisions of this Chapter.

Amended by Acts 1981, No. 906, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:956 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 956
Amnesty program
Status: in_force

A. A natural or juridical person possessing human remains in violation of this Chapter may voluntarily relinquish possession of such human remains to the Louisiana Department of Justice without sanctions under this Chapter. The attorney general shall be vested with the authority and discretion to waive civil sanctions under this Chapter for any person who voluntarily relinquishes human remains.

B. Upon voluntarily relinquishing human remains pursuant to this Chapter, any person may designate which qualified entity or entities the human remains should be transmitted to for permanent curation following analysis for compliance with other laws. Such transmissions shall occur only with the concurrence of the designated qualified entity or entities. Failing such concurrence or direction, the disposition of human remains relinquished or acquired by the Louisiana Department of Justice pursuant to this Chapter shall be within the discretion of the attorney general.

Acts 2016, No. 531, §1, eff. June 17, 2016.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:798 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 798
Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this Part, unless the context requires otherwise, the following terms shall have the following meaning:

(1) "Board" means the board of commissioners of the French Quarter Management District.

(2) "City" means the city of New Orleans.

(3) "District" means the French Quarter Management District.

Acts 2007, No. 280, §1, eff. July 6, 2007; Acts 2011, No. 304, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:651 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 651
Creation; domicile; purposes
Status: in_force

A.(1) The Council for the Development of French in Louisiana, hereinafter referred to as the "council", is hereby created within the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism to preserve, promote, and develop Louisiana's French and Creole culture, heritage, and language.

(2) The official working language of the council and its employees shall be French.

B. The council shall be domiciled in Lafayette, Louisiana.

C. The purposes of the council shall include the following:

(1) To oversee the development and expansion of the state's economic development and tourism activities designed to promote our French culture, heritage, and language.

(2) To promote, develop, and oversee cultural and educational relations and exchanges within the state and between the state of Louisiana and other countries, provinces, and states that share Louisiana's historical French heritage, culture, and language.

(3) To promote, support, and enhance French language immersion educational programs and instruction at all levels of elementary and secondary education in the state by working cooperatively and collaboratively with the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education and the state Department of Education.

(4) To develop a model French immersion program which can be used by any school seeking to establish a French immersion program within its curriculum.

(5) To increase the number of French immersion schools in the state, with the specific goal of establishing, not later than September 1, 2015, at least one French immersion school in East Baton Rouge Parish and in each of the following parishes which comprise the Acadiana Region:

(a) Acadia

(b) Ascension

(c) Assumption

(d) Avoyelles

(e) Calcasieu

(f) Cameron

(g) Evangeline

(h) Iberia

(i) Iberville

(j) Jefferson Davis

(k) Lafayette

(l) Lafourche

(m) Pointe Coupee

(n) St. Charles

(o) St. James

(p) St. Landry

(q) St. Martin

(r) St. Mary

(s) St. John the Baptist

(t) Terrebonne

(u) Vermilion

(v) West Baton Rouge

(6) To develop a certification system whereby vendors, festivals, and restaurants may be designated "Francophone Friendly" and design and issue a marquee that may be displayed by each certified entity.

(7) To provide and approve Louisiana French terms for the supplement to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) to be placed on bilingual and symbol-based signs to be installed by the Department of Transportation and Development on state and federal highways pursuant to the uniform highway marking system, R.S. 32:235 et seq.

D. To reflect the council's educational, social, economic development, and diplomatic missions as provided in this Chapter, the council shall also be authorized to identify itself as "Office of Francophone Affairs" in English or "Agence des Affaires Francophones" in French.

Acts 1968, No. 409, §1. Amended by Acts 1968, Ex. Sess., No. 22, §1; Acts 2010, No. 679, §1; Acts 2012, No. 202, §1; Acts 2014, No. 263, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:5 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 5
Executive secretary as chief librarian and director of library development; secretary of board of commissioners
Status: in_force

The executive secretary shall be the chief librarian and chief executive officer of the State Library of Louisiana as well as the director of library development and service throughout the state; he shall also be the secretary of the board of commissioners.

Acts 1991, No. 938, §2.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1204 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1204
Funds for acquiring site or construction of buildings; anticipation of revenues; bond issues; special tax; use of maintenance tax
Status: in_force

A. For the purpose of acquiring sites or erecting buildings thereon or additions thereto, including furniture, fixtures, and equipment, for a museum, the governing authority may:

(1) Anticipate the revenues of the parish and issue bonds or certificates based thereon, as provided by law.

(2) Issue negotiable bonds and thereafter levy and collect taxes to pay and retire the same, if so authorized by the electorate voting thereon at an election called and held for that purpose in the manner provided by law.

(3) Levy a special tax provided by Article VI, Section 32 of the Constitution of Louisiana.

B. Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the governing authority may authorize the board to use all or any portion of the millage dedicated for maintenance and support of museums, as provided in R.S. 25:1209(B) for any of the purposes set forth in Subsection A hereof.

Acts 1991, No. 120, §1, eff. June 30, 1991.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1224 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1224
Duties and authority
Status: in_force

A. The commission shall have the following duties and authority:

(1) The commission may establish an office in the region.

(2) The commission shall have the power to appoint and fix compensation of such staff as may be necessary to carry out its duties subject to provisions of law governing employees of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism.

(3) Upon request of the commission, the head of any federal or state agency may detail, on a reimbursable basis, any of the personnel of such agency to the commission to assist in carrying out the commission's duties. The commission may accept the services of personnel detailed from the state and any political subdivision thereof, and may reimburse the state or such political subdivision for those services.

(4) The commission may hold such hearings, act at such times and places, and receive such evidence as the commission considers appropriate.

(5) The commission may sue and be sued.

(6) The secretary of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism shall provide to the commission, on a reimbursable basis, such administrative support services as may be required.

(7) The commission may promulgate rules in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act to carry out the purposes of this Chapter.

(8) The commission may use its funds to obtain money from any source under any program or law requiring matching funds or other similar participation in order to receive funding.

(9) Except as limited by an agreement pursuant to Paragraph (12) of this Subsection, the commission may, for the purposes of carrying out its duties, seek, accept, and dispose of gifts, bequests, or donations of money, personal property, or services, received from any source.

(10) The commission may acquire from any willing seller real property or interests in real property in the heritage area as deemed necessary to fulfill the purposes of this Chapter.

(11) Any real property or interest in real property acquired by the commission under Paragraph (10) of this Subsection may be conveyed by the commission to an appropriate public agency or public interest group as determined by the commission.

(12) For the purposes of carrying out the plan as provided in Paragraph B(2) of this Section, the commission may enter into cooperative agreements with the state, with any political subdivision of the state, or with any person. Any such cooperative agreement shall, at a minimum, establish procedures for providing notice to the commission of any action proposed by the state, such political subdivision, or such person which may affect the implementation of the plan.

(13) The commission may establish such advisory groups and form partnerships as it deems necessary to ensure open communication with and assistance from the state, political subdivisions of the state, and interested persons.

(14) Submit annual budget requests for implementation of the management plan, including matches for federal funds once national heritage area designation is achieved.

B.(1) To guide the commission's operations and in preparation for completing the management plan, the commission shall prepare a concept plan and feasibility study which:

(a) Identifies the commission as the management entity for the heritage area and describes the organization, structure, people, programs, capabilities, and funding necessary and desirable for implementing the purposes of this Chapter.

(b) Discusses the commission's vision, mission, goals, roles, responsibilities, and other objectives related to strategic planning.

(c) Determines the potential for the heritage area to become a nationally recognized heritage area.

(d) Identifies, inventories, maps, and describes the region's resources.

(e) Delineates the tentative boundaries of the heritage area.

(f) Defines the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area driving corridor or scenic byway.

(g) Outlines potential resource conservation and development measures.

(h) Lists partners and their commitments.

(i) Describes tentative management measures.

(j) Determines immediate project needs including initiatives that the commission will assist in implementing immediately.

(2) Within four years after the commission conducts its first meeting, it shall, through the secretary of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, submit to the House Committee on Municipal, Parochial and Cultural Affairs and the Senate Committee on Natural Resources a Cultural Heritage and Corridor Management Plan. The plan shall take into account existing federal, state, and local plans, and shall coordinate those plans and present a unified resource management and interpretation plan for the heritage area. The plan shall:

(a) Provide a complete resource inventory which also includes any property in the heritage area which should be preserved, restored, managed, developed, maintained, or acquired because of its national historic, cultural, scenic, or natural systems significance.

(b) Develop a historic, cultural, scenic, and natural resource interpretation plan to interpret the resources of the heritage area.

(c) Recommend policies for resource management which consider and detail the application of appropriate land and water management techniques, including the development of intergovernmental cooperative agreements, that will protect and interpret the historical, cultural, scenic, and natural resources of the heritage area in a manner consistent with supporting appropriate and compatible economic revitalization efforts.

(d) Detail the ways in which local, state, and federal programs may best be coordinated to promote the purposes of this Chapter.

(e) Contain a program for implementation of the plan, including estimated funding needs, by local, state, and federal governments.

(f) Review local government comprehensive plans and projects.

(3) After review and approval of the plan by the legislature, by resolution, the commission shall implement the plan by taking appropriate steps in cooperation with any public or private entity to preserve and interpret the historic resources of the heritage area and to support public and private efforts in sustainable economic revitalization consistent with the goals of the plan. These steps may include but need not be limited to:

(a) Assisting the state, local, and federal governments in preserving the heritage area and its surrounding area.

(b) Assisting the state, local, and federal governments, directly or indirectly, in designing, establishing, and maintaining visitor centers and other interpretive centers and exhibits in the heritage area.

(c) Assisting in increasing public awareness of and appreciation for the historical, scenic, natural, and cultural resources and sites in the heritage area.

(d) Assisting the state, local, and federal governments and nonprofit organizations in the restoration of any historic building or structure and of any damaged or impaired natural systems or features in the heritage area.

(e) Encouraging, by appropriate means, enhanced economic development in the heritage area consistent with the goals of the plan.

(f) Ensuring that clear, consistent signs identifying access points, heritage driving corridor or scenic byway routes, points of interest, and services for visitors are placed throughout the heritage area.

(g) Assisting local governments in the development of comprehensive plans and projects.

Acts 1997, No. 1440, §1, eff. July 1, 1998; Acts 1999, No. 367, §1; Acts 2002, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 112, §1, eff. January 1, 2003; Acts 2006, No. 713, §1, eff. July 1, 2006; Acts 2025, No. 475, §1.

NOTE: SEE ACTS 1997, NO. 1440, §3.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1303 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1303
Delta Bike Trail Commission; membership; officers
Status: in_force

A. The commission members shall serve four-year terms.

B. The commission shall consist of seven members designated and appointed by each of the following:

(1) The lieutenant governor.

(2) The secretary of the Department of Transportation and Development.

(3) The state representative for District 21.

(4) The president of the Concordia Parish Police Jury.

(5) The president of the East Caroll Parish Police Jury.

(6) The president of the Tensas Parish Police Jury.

(7) The president of the Madison Parish Police Jury.

C. The members of the commission shall not receive any salary for the performance of their duties. The commissioners may be reimbursed for mileage expenses incurred for attendance at meetings of the commission, subject to the availability of funds. The mileage allowance shall be fixed by the commission in an amount not to exceed the mileage allowance authorized under state travel regulations at rates and standards as promulgated by the division of administration.

D. The members of the commission shall elect from among themselves a chair and other officers as they deem necessary.

E. The commission shall meet not less than quarterly. The commission may hold such other meetings as it deems necessary. Meetings may be called by the chairman or by a majority of the members.

F. The commission shall adopt bylaws to govern its affairs and activities.

G. The commission created pursuant to this Chapter shall be subject to the provisions of R.S. 42:1101 et seq.

H. The commission may perform, procure from the Department of Transportation and Development with the consent of its secretary, or procure from outside service providers any service or portion of services necessary to fulfill the duties and obligations of the commission.

Acts 2022, No. 336, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:301 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 301
Creation of commission
Status: in_force

There is created a state art commission, to be known as the Louisiana Art Commission. This commission shall be assigned suitable permanent quarters in the "Old State House" in the City of Baton Rouge.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:282 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 282
Membership; tenure
Status: in_force

The members of the commission shall consist of one judge of the district court in and for the parish of Lafayette, and six attorneys actively engaged in the practice of law in Lafayette Parish, to be selected by the court en banc. The judge selected shall serve for a term of three years, or until his successor is duly chosen. Initially, there shall be two attorneys to serve for a term of one year, two to serve for two years and two to serve for three years; thereafter in each succeeding year two attorneys shall be selected to serve for three years, or until their successors are duly chosen.

Added by Acts 1968, No. 416, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:125 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 125
Documents to be supplied to law library of state university; exchanges
Status: in_force

A. The secretary of state shall deliver to the law library of Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College the following public documents, not later than ninety days after they are printed from time to time: three copies of the Acts of the legislature, two copies of the journals of each house of the legislature, and two copies of the proceedings of any constitutional convention.

B. In any contract which the Supreme Court may make for the printing of the supreme court reports, provision shall be made that the printer thereof shall deliver to the law library of Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, without charge, fifty copies of each volume thereof within a reasonable time after printing.

C. The law library of the Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College shall exchange the public documents received pursuant to this Section for publications relating to government useful to students of public law and to public officials and shall catalogue such material so as to make it serviceable to members of the legislature.

Acts 1987, No. 224, §1; Acts 2010, No. 596, §2; Acts 2015, No. 383, §2, eff. July 1, 2015.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:791 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 791
Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission
Status: in_force

A. The Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission, hereinafter the "commission", is hereby created to be a body politic and corporate and a political subdivision of the state with all of the powers of a political subdivision and with such further powers and functions as are set forth in this Section. The commission is created for the purpose of the planning and development of the Natchitoches Historic District, a national landmark, hereinafter the "district", as such district is created and its area described in Chapter 16 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Natchitoches.

B. The commission shall direct the production and maintenance of a master plan for the development of the district, which plan shall specifically provide for the development of tourism and maintenance of the historic integrity of the district. The commission shall adopt an initial plan no later than February 1, 1999. Prior to the adoption of any such plan, there shall have been a thirty-day period for public review of the plan as finally proposed for adoption, which review period shall culminate in the commission's holding at least one public hearing on the plan.

C. If, on July 1, 1999, no contract has been awarded by the city of Natchitoches for the construction of the Natchitoches Convention Center, then the commission may select a site for construction of the center. The selection of the site for the Natchitoches Convention Center by the commission shall not be construed to impede or abrogate the city of Natchitoches' solicitation of the state for funding for the construction of the center.

D. The commission may:

(1) Receive grants, donations, funds, or other resources from any source, including proceeds from the sale of services.

(2) Acquire property, including rights-of-way; and hold and use any franchise or property, immovable, movable, or mixed, tangible or intangible, or any interest therein, necessary or desirable for carrying out the purposes of the commission.

(3) Issue bonds for the purposes set forth in this Section, which bonds may be payable from any of the commission's resources including a pledge and dedication of the amounts of tax proceeds in the Natchitoches Historic District Development Fund.

(4) Enter into contracts including those for purchase, construction, and improvement of works and facilities necessary in connection with the planning and development of the district.

(5) Sell or lease property owned by it when such property is no longer needed for public purposes.

(6) Appoint agents or employees, prescribe their duties, and fix their compensation.

(7) Adopt such rules for the transaction of its business as it deems necessary.

(8) Adopt, use, and alter at will a corporate seal.

(9) Provide matching grants for the restoration or improvement of private properties located within the district, when such restoration or improvement is determined by the commission to be consistent with the master plan for the development of the district.

E. The commission is prohibited from levying taxes and expropriating property.

F. The commission shall be comprised of the following sixteen members:

(1) The chairman of the Historic Business Association.

(2) The chairman of the Natchitoches Historic District Commission.

(3) The chairman of the National Heritage Area Commission District.

(4) The mayor of the city of Natchitoches or his designee.

(5) The chairman of the Natchitoches Chamber of Commerce or his designee.

(6) The chairman of the Natchitoches Tourist Commission or his designee.

(7) The state senator from District 31 or his designee.

(8) The state representative from District 23 or his designee.

(9) The president of the Natchitoches Parish Police Jury or his designee.

(10) The president of Northwestern State University or his designee.

(11) The chairman of the Association for the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches or his designee.

(12) The chairman of the Natchitoches Historic Foundation, Inc. or his designee.

(13) The chairman of the Cane River Waterway Commission or his designee.

(14) The chairman of Museum Contents, Inc. or his designee.

(15) The president of the Natchitoches Parish Voters and Civic League or his designee.

(16) The chairman of the Main Street Association or his designee.

G. Commission members shall serve without pay or per diem. Members may receive reimbursement for pre-approved travel expenses; however, in no case shall such travel expense allowances exceed those established under Chapter 17* of Title 39 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950.

H. The commission shall convene its first meeting no later than July 1, 1998, and thereafter shall meet monthly or as is determined appropriate by either the commission chairman or by written request of a majority of the commission members. The mayor of the city of Natchitoches shall notify all commission members of the date, time, and place of the first meeting. At the first commission meeting, the members shall by majority vote elect a chairman, who shall serve in such capacity for a term of two years. Members holding the position of chairman shall be limited to one term in such office. A vacancy in the office of chairman shall be filled by majority vote of the members. Meetings of the commission shall be open to the public, pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 42:11 et seq. The commission shall keep a record of its resolutions, transactions, studies, and findings, which record shall be public record.

I. Monies received by the commission from the Natchitoches Historic District Development Fund pursuant to R.S. 47:302.10, 322.13, and 332.5 shall be used for the planning and development of the district and for administration and operation of the commission.

J. Notwithstanding any provision of this Section to the contrary, neither the authority of the commission created by this Section nor the exercise of such authority shall in any way supersede, limit, or otherwise interfere with the authority of the Natchitoches Historic District Commission as the latter is established by Chapter 16 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Natchitoches.

Acts 1998, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 154, §1, eff. May 7, 1998; Acts 1999, No. 937, §1, eff. July 9, 1999.

*As appears in enrolled bill.

NOTE: See Acts 1998, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 154, §2 (R.S. 47:302.10, 322.13, and 332.5) and §3, eff. July 1, 1998.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:262 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 262
Certification by judge of books to be purchased or subscribed for
Status: in_force

The judge or judges of the district court of the parish shall certify to the police jury desiring to purchase and maintain a law library for their parish, a list of the books or volumes or sets of books to be purchased or subscribed for; after this list has been certified the police jury shall be authorized to purchase or subscribe for the books or sets of books so certified.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:380.156 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 380.156
Use of collections
Status: in_force

Any collection of the Germantown Colony Museum may, subject to approval of the board, be lent in part. The board shall ensure proper safeguards for its maintenance and return and shall ensure that proper records are kept. The collections shall be available for use in educational projects, subject to the approval of the board.

Acts 2008, No. 847, §1, eff. July 1, 2008.

NOTE: See Acts 2008, No. 847, §3, relative to effectiveness.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:754 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 754
Consideration of study committee report
Status: in_force

The governing body, by ordinance, resolution or similar act, may adopt or reject the recommendation of the historic preservation study committee or of the planning or zoning committee or agency or it may refer the matter back to said study committee or said commission or agency, as the case may be, for further study; or said governing body may make such amendments or revisions as it may deem advisable, including the authority to require reasonable financial and administrative conditions in consideration of the overall public good as prerequisites for the creation of any historic district and/or landmarks commission. However, any final action taken by said governing body shall be published in the manner usually provided for the official publication of its acts but, in any event, publications shall be made at least once either in such official journal or any other newspaper having general circulation within the governmental unit.

Acts 1974, No. 273, §4.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1325 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1325
Operating funds; appropriations by the legislature
Status: in_force

Funds appropriated by the legislature for operation of the Leeville Fishing Village and Cultural Preservation Commission shall be used solely for that purpose and in accordance with the budget plan developed by the commission.

Acts 2013, No. 128, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:281 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 281
Creation; purpose
Status: in_force

There is hereby created the Lafayette Parish Law Library Commission to establish, maintain and operate a law library for the use and benefit of the judiciary, the members of the bar and the general public of Lafayette Parish.

Added by Acts 1968, No. 416, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:214.4 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 214.4
Vermilion Parish Library Board of Control; membership; representation
Status: in_force

A. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Chapter to the contrary, the Vermilion Parish Police Jury is authorized to appoint one additional member to the Vermilion Parish Library Board of Control.

B. The library board of control member appointed pursuant to this Section shall cause the representation of the board to reflect the make-up of the parish minority population and shall be appointed to serve for an initial term of three years and thereafter the board member shall be appointed for a term of five years, except that a vacancy occurring otherwise than by the expiration of his term shall be filled for the unexpired term in the same manner as the original appointment.

C. Repealed by Acts 2015, No. 279, §1.

Acts 2006, No. 625, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 2007; Acts 2015, No. 279, §1.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:821 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 821
Louisiana Folklife Commission; purpose and functions
Status: in_force

A. The purpose and function of the commission is to advise the office of cultural development on the formulation of an annual state plan to be prepared by the office of cultural development. The plan shall outline policy, objectives, and budgeting needs in the identification, preservation, and presentation of Louisiana folk cultural resources for each fiscal year. The commission shall act in an advisory capacity to the Division of the Arts and to the Louisiana State Arts Council with respect to the allocation of grant funds for arts projects and activities consistent with established review and allocation procedures established by the Division of the Arts and the Louisiana State Arts Council. The commission shall also advise the Division of the Arts and the Louisiana State Arts Council on policy or guidelines as they relate to or affect the folk arts and artists in the state.

B. The commission shall formulate long-range goals for folklife activity in the office of cultural development. In addition, it shall advise the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, other relevant state agencies, and the governor on public policies that will aid in the identification, preservation, and presentation of the folklife of ethnic, regional, occupational, and family groups in the state.

C. The commission is authorized to advise the assistant secretary of the office of cultural development as to the creation of a Division of Folklife, the establishment of a program, and the hiring of a professional staff and director for the division if funds become available.

Acts 1983, No. 687, §4.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:1206 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 1206
Board powers, duties, and functions
Status: in_force

A. The board shall:

(1) Adopt bylaws establishing policies and procedures for its governance, subject to law and ordinances.

(2) Elect and define the responsibilities of the board's officers, including a chairman and vice chairman to serve terms of three years.

(3) Establish when museums will be open to the public.

(4) With the advice of the association, set policies for museums.

(5) Exercise the powers, duties, and functions with respect to accessions, deaccessions, loans, and conservation of museum properties and collections in accordance with law, ordinance, and professional museum practices as established by the American Association of Museums.

(6) With the advice of the association, have custody of and administer, manage, operate, maintain, and preserve the buildings, collections, and exhibitions of the West Baton Rouge Museum complex in Port Allen and any other museum.

(7) Be domiciled in Port Allen. However, additional offices may be established and maintained within other museums.

(8) Cooperate with the parish elementary and secondary schools in the teaching of the history and culture of the parish.

(9) Provide the governing authority with a report of its activities or other information, upon its request.

(10) Pay monthly the expenses or costs of the board's operations, including salaries and all other incidental expenses, out of funds budgeted for such purposes.

B. The board may:

(1) Contract with consulting experts in the fields of museum administration and conservation of paintings, books and papers, and other decorative arts, and with appraisers, buying agents, designers, engineers, attorneys, accountants, construction and financial experts, and other such persons as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of the board.

(2) Create from its membership an executive committee.

(3) Create additional committees which it deems necessary or expedient.

(4) Appoint nonboard members to any committee of the board other than the executive committee.

(5) With the advice of the association, set and charge admission and tour fees and user or rental fees to any public museum building or exhibit, as it deems necessary.

Acts 1991, No. 120, §1, eff. June 30, 1991.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:380.152 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 380.152
Governing board; creation; domicile; appointment and compensation of members
Status: in_force

A. The governing board of the Germantown Colony Museum is hereby created in the Department of State.

B. The domicile of the board shall be in the parish of Webster.

C. The board shall be comprised of the following members:

(1) Eleven members who have a knowledge of and an interest in the purposes of the museum shall be appointed by the secretary of state.

(2) The secretary of state or his designee shall serve as a member of the board.

D. Each member shall serve until his successor is appointed and takes office.

E. Each appointed member shall be confirmed by the Senate and shall serve a term concurrent with the secretary of state.

F. Members of the board shall serve without compensation.

Acts 2008, No. 847, §1, eff. July 1, 2008; Acts 2010, No. 308, §1, eff. June 17, 2010; Acts 2020, No. 212, §1, eff. June 11, 2020.

NOTE: See Acts 2008, No. 847, §3, relative to effectiveness.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:912 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 912
Duties and responsibilities
Status: in_force

The division shall have the following duties and responsibilities:

(1) Nominating Louisiana properties to the National Register of Historic Places in accordance with 16 U.S.C. 470 et seq. and R.S. 25:901 and 902.

(2) Compiling and maintaining a survey of all buildings in the state which are over fifty years old.

(3) Reviewing applications for the federal historic preservation tax credit program pursuant to 26 U.S.C. 47.

(4) Developing a comprehensive statewide historic preservation plan to be approved by the state historic preservation officer and updated from time to time.

(5) Administering the certified local government program pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 470a.

(6) Administering the Louisiana component of the historic American buildings survey program in accordance with 16 U.S.C. 470a.

(7) Reviewing federal projects and federally assisted or licensed projects for their impact upon historic buildings and places under provisions of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, 16 U.S.C. 470f.

(8) Reviewing applications for the state historic preservation tax incentive program established by R.S. 47:4311 et seq.

(9) Reviewing projects in the State Capitol Historic District for issues concerning buildings, furnishings, and grounds of the district pursuant to R.S. 25:781 et seq.

(10) Performing all other functions relative to historic preservation as required by federal or state law.

(11) Establishing and implementing the main street historic downtown revitalization program in Louisiana as developed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

(12) Implementing a program of activities that will make information about the historic resources of the state available to the public. This shall include but shall not be limited to publications, press releases, periodicals, exhibits, teaching materials, lecturers, and other public presentations.

(13) Providing for the management of all Federal Historic Preservation Fund monies and state funds allocated for grants for the purpose of historic preservation.

(14) Under guidance of a professional architectural historian, developing and implementing a program to provide public financial assistance for the preservation and enhancement of designated historic structures, both public and private.

(15) Establishing and maintaining a register of historic cemeteries located in Louisiana in accordance with the provisions of R.S. 25:914.

Acts 1997, No. 785, §1; Acts 2008, No. 600, §1, eff. June 30, 2008.
La. Rev. Stat. § 25:806 — LA Code / Code revised-statutes / Title 25 / Section 806
Transfer of records, money and equipment
Status: in_force

All books, papers, records, money, choses in action and other property heretofore possessed, controlled or used by any board, commission, council, department or agency in the exercise of functions hereby transferred are hereby transferred to the State Department of Arts, Historical and Cultural Preservation.

Added by Acts 1972, No. 425, §1, operative Jan. 1, 1973.