DISTRICTS/RAILROAD: Provides relative to the Northeast Louisiana Multimodal District

HB 116 creates the Northeast Louisiana Multimodal District, a new local government entity focused on developing rail infrastructure and economic growth in northeastern Louisiana. The district can enter contracts for rail facilities (including with freight carriers), create smaller subdistricts within its boundaries, and exercise powers similar to existing industrial and economic development boards. This directly affects communities within the district’s defined area by enabling coordinated infrastructure projects and economic planning. The bill establishes the district’s structure and authority without specifying funding or immediate projects.