LA HB674

Redefines "thing of economic value" to clarify exclusions including promotional items, pharmaceutical samples for patients, food/drink consumed as a personal guest, and reasonable transportation for legislators for educational purposes or public speeches within the U.S., North America, and Louisiana offshore structures

Increases gift limits from $100 to $200 for sympathy gifts to public servants, raises financial disclosure reporting thresholds (Category I from $5,000 to $10,000, Category II from $5,000-$24,999 to $10,000-$49,999), and raises income disclosure thresholds from $250 to $500 for certain elected officials

Establishes detailed procedural protections for ethics investigations including 30-day minimum notice before hearings, right to subpoena witnesses, opportunity to respond to staff reports, and option to appear by phone or videoconference

Requires Board of Ethics to provide semi-annual reports with aggregated data on complaints, investigations, charges, penalties, fee waivers, and advisory opinions issued

Allows certain exceptions including permitting Louisiana Racing Commission members to own racehorses, allowing former New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority commissioners with 30+ years hospitality experience to be employed by the authority (expires December 31, 2025), and permitting peace officers/firemen to receive charitable assistance