LA HB6

Creates new crime in Louisiana (R.S. 14:71.5) for landlords or property managers who receive utility payments from tenants under a lease or rental agreement and knowingly fail to apply those funds to utility bills within 60 days

Establishes tiered penalties based on amount misappropriated: up to 20 years imprisonment and $50,000 fine for $25,000+; up to 10 years and $10,000 fine for $5,000-$25,000; up to 5 years and $3,000 fine for $1,000-$5,000; up to 6 months and $1,000 fine for under $1,000

Requires convicted offenders to make full restitution to victims and any other persons who suffered financial loss

Provides exceptions when the tenant failed to pay sufficient funds for utilities or when delays result from administrative, clerical, or technical errors by the utility company

Applies to both individuals and business entities, including corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and their authorized representatives responsible for utility payments