Louisiana § RS 14:139 - Political payroll padding
Full text of Louisiana Louisiana Civil Code § RS 14:139 — Political payroll padding, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ RS 14:139. Political payroll padding
A. Political payroll padding is committed when any public officer or public employee shall, at any time during the six months preceding any election for governor:
(1) Increase the number of public employees in his office, department, board, agency, or institution more than five percent over the average number of such employees for each of the first six months of the twelve months next preceding the election; or
(2) Increase the payroll or other operating expenses of his office, department, board, agency, or institution more than fifteen percent over its average amount of such expenditures for each of the months of the first six months of the twelve months next preceding the election.
B. The provisions of this Section shall not apply where the increases are necessitated by flood, invasion by a common enemy, or other public emergency.
C. Whoever commits the crime of political payroll padding shall be imprisoned for not more than five years with or without hard labor or shall be fined not more than five thousand dollars or both.
Amended by Acts 1980, No. 454, §1; Acts 2014, No. 791, §7.
Source: official Louisiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana § RS 14:139
What does Louisiana Civil Code § RS 14:139 cover?
Section RS 14:139 ("Political payroll padding") is part of the Louisiana Civil Code, the codified statutory law of Louisiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Louisiana § RS 14:139?
A common citation format is "Louisiana Civil Code § RS 14:139" (Louisiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Louisiana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Louisiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Louisiana attorney.
How does Louisiana § RS 14:139 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Louisiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Louisiana.