Louisiana § RS 18:403 - Election records and papers; preservation; public record

Full text of Louisiana Louisiana Civil Code § RS 18:403 — Election records and papers; preservation; public record, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ RS 18:403. Election records and papers; preservation; public record

A.  Except as otherwise provided by law, every election official shall retain and preserve, for at least six months after the date of a primary or general election, all records and papers which come into his possession relating to the qualifying of candidates, the selection of commissioners, alternate commissioners, and watchers, and the conduct or results of a primary or general election.  These records and papers shall be public records open to inspection by anyone.

B.  In an election involving the office of the president of the United States, vice president of the United States, presidential elector, United States senator, or United States representative, all records and papers which come into the possession of an election official relating to any application, registration, or other act requisite to voting in such election shall be kept and maintained for a period of twenty-two months from the date of the election.

Acts 1976, No. 697, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1978; Acts 2002, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 130, §1, eff. April 23, 2002.

Source: official Louisiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana § RS 18:403

What does Louisiana Civil Code § RS 18:403 cover?

Section RS 18:403 ("Election records and papers; preservation; public record") 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 18:403?

A common citation format is "Louisiana Civil Code § RS 18:403" (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 18:403 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.