Bill > SB85

This bill provides parishes and municipalities with expanded authority to designate and enforce no-wake zones on local waterways, with specific limitations and guidelines. A "no-wake zone" requires vessels to operate at the slowest possible speed while maintaining directional control, minimizing water surface disturbance. The bill allows local governing authorities to establish no-wake zones that do not extend more than 300 feet from physical structures along waterway banks and cannot exceed one mile in length for zones spanning the entire width of a waterway. The legislation clarifies that state laws cannot preempt locally established no-wake zones and expands enforcement capabilities to include sheriff's departments, local law enforcement, state police, and wildlife agents. Additionally, the bill adds public bridges to the list of facilities that automatically require no-wake zones within 300 feet and grants the Bayou Lafourche Fresh Water District specific emergency powers to implement no-wake zones during low water levels or potential bank erosion events. The changes are set to take effect on August 1, 2025, and aim to enhance water safety and protect waterway infrastructure.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/BillInfo.aspx?s=25rs&b=SB85&sbi=y