CRIME: Provides relative to public safety at Mardi Gras and other parades (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

HB 397 creates a new crime for recklessly throwing objects from parade floats during events like Mardi Gras, directly affecting parade participants and spectators. It prohibits knowingly or carelessly throwing items that could foreseeably cause injury, with penalties ranging from a $500 fine for the basic offense to up to 3 years in prison for causing serious bodily injury. The bill includes exceptions allowing the responsible tossing of permitted items, such as candy or small trinkets, as long as they don't violate other laws. This law aims to enhance public safety at large public gatherings by holding float operators accountable for dangerous actions.