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LA HB186

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/18/2026

Primary Sponsor

Michael Melerine

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Creates a new crime for intentionally misusing LA GATOR Scholarship Program account funds for purposes not authorized under the program's governing statutes

  • Establishes tiered penalties based on amount stolen: $25,000+ carries up to 20 years hard labor and $50,000 fine; $5,000-$24,999 carries up to 10 years and $10,000 fine; $1,000-$4,999 carries up to 5 years and $3,000 fine; under $1,000 carries up to 6 months and $1,000 fine

  • Enhances penalties for repeat offenders who steal under $1,000 and have two or more prior theft convictions, increasing maximum imprisonment to 2 years and fine to $2,000

  • Requires convicted offenders to pay full restitution to victims and any other persons who suffered financial loss from the offense

Legislative Description

Creates the crime of theft of funds from the Louisiana Giving All True Opportunity to Rise (LA GATOR) Scholarship Program

CRIME/THEFT

Last Action

Read by title, under the rules, referred to the Committee on Administration of Criminal Justice.

3/9/2026

Committee Referrals

Administration of Criminal Justice2/18/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available