LA HB536

Divides the first district of the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal (Jefferson Parish) from two election sections into three election sections, redistributing six judgeships: four judges to Section One, one judge to Section Two, and one judge to Section Three

Creates a new Election Section Three composed of specific precincts in Jefferson Parish (including Precincts 184, 185B, 194A, 194B, 195, 196, 197A, 197B, 204, 205, 212, 213A-C, 214A-B, 215, 216A-B, and 217)

Requires the first vacancy from a Section One judge (through death, resignation, retirement, or removal) to be filled by election from Section Three; if no such vacancy occurs before qualifying opens for 2030 statewide elections, Division B shall be assigned to Section Three

Demographic impact: Section Three has 55.5% Black total population (53.6% Black VAP) and 56.5% Black registered voters; Section Two has 72.2% Black total population (71.9% Black VAP) and 79.2% Black registered voters

Becomes effective upon signature by the governor or lapse of time for gubernatorial action