Rep. Mike Bayham

Maddy summaryHB 686 requires anyone making a phone call created using artificial intelligence to clearly disclose at the start that the message was generated by AI. It bans calls without this disclosure, imposing fines up to $750 or up to six months in jail for violations. The law applies to all AI-generated calls, including automated ones, and references an existing definition of "artificial intelligence" from another statute. This directly affects businesses or individuals using AI for phone communications, such as customer service or marketing calls.

Maddy summaryHB 266 creates a special permit for natural hair braiders in Louisiana, directly affecting individuals who provide services like twisting, weaving, or braiding hair by hand or with simple tools. The bill requires permit holders to complete sanitation/safety training, pass a 20-question exam, and pay fees - exempting them from needing a separate beauty salon license. It defines "natural hair braiding" broadly to include common techniques without chemical treatments or hair extensions, while preempting local bans or restrictions on this service. The law takes effect July 1, 2027, standardizing requirements statewide.

Maddy summaryHB 528 proposes a constitutional amendment to impose term limits on Louisiana state legislators. It would bar senators or representatives who have served more than two and a half terms in three consecutive terms (since 1996) from running for re-election for a full decade after their third consecutive term ends. The amendment requires voter approval in the November 2026 election, where voters would decide whether to adopt this 10-year ban on re-election for term-limited lawmakers. If approved, it would change the current term limit rules under Article III, Section 4(E) of the Louisiana Constitution.

Maddy summaryHB 529 amends Louisiana law to remove the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education from the legal definition of a "party primary office." This change affects how election rules apply to that board's composition, specifically excluding it from the list of offices where candidates must run in party primaries. The bill does not alter voting procedures, election rules, or the board's responsibilities - it only adjusts the statutory definition. This is a technical clarification to the election code, not a substantive policy change.

Maddy summaryHB 309 imposes a $25 civil penalty on pedestrians who walk on crosswalks while using a cellphone. It also creates a rebuttable presumption that violators may be liable for damages resulting from their distraction. The bill directly affects individuals walking in crosswalks while using mobile devices. This measure establishes minor financial consequences for distracted walking, focusing on civil enforcement rather than criminal penalties.

Maddy summaryHB 524 proposes a constitutional amendment to Louisiana's Article III, Section 13. It would require that local bills (affecting specific parishes or municipalities) be introduced only by a state legislator whose district includes the affected locality, with an exception for districts with vacancies. The amendment also mandates publication of notice in the affected locality's official journal for 2 days (3 days for crime prevention special districts) at least 30 days before bill introduction, including specific details about fees for security-focused districts. This change aims to ensure direct legislative representation for local issues and increase public notice before such bills are filed.

Maddy summaryHB 453 requires utility companies (like electric, gas, or water providers) to keep trees and plants at least four feet away from power lines, poles, and other above-ground utility equipment on public property. This rule directly affects utility providers and local governments that operate utilities, aiming to prevent vegetation-related service disruptions. The Public Service Commission will develop specific enforcement rules under the Administrative Procedure Act. The bill establishes a clear, measurable standard for vegetation clearance near infrastructure without specifying broader outcomes.

Maddy summaryHB 38 amends Louisiana law to clarify what constitutes "child sexual abuse materials," directly affecting creators, distributors, and law enforcement handling such content involving minors. The bill specifically adds "deepfake" to the definition, meaning AI-generated or manipulated videos/images depicting minors in sexual contexts are now included. It excludes political commentary, satire, parody, or news content that clearly discloses it is not real. The law defines "deepfake" as digitally altered media that falsely appears authentic to a reasonable observer, but excludes material with clear context or disclosure. This change updates criminal definitions without altering penalties for existing violations.

Maddy summaryThis bill (HCR 3) is a concurrent resolution directing the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) to amend rules governing outdoor advertising signs along highways. It requires increased spacing between signs (500-1,000 feet on most highways), bans stacked signs after July 31, 2025, and prohibits new permits for stacked configurations. The changes aim to reduce driver distractions and preserve scenic highway views, directly affecting billboard companies, property owners, and businesses that operate signage near roads. The resolution modifies existing DOTD rules to align with safety and beautification goals under the Highway Beautification Act. Note: The bill’s title incorrectly references SNAP benefits; the actual content addresses outdoor advertising regulations.

Maddy summaryThis resolution commends Patricia Lowrey-Dufour upon her retirement as the senior legislative analyst for the House Committee on House and Governmental Affairs with House Legislative Services. It formally recognizes her nearly four decades of dedicated service to the Louisiana Legislature, acknowledging her expertise and significant contributions to the institution.