A.  The agricultural industry constitutes a significant element in the state’s economy. In order to expand the state’s economic base and to retain farm jobs, it is necessary that the state encourage and support the development of railroads. The Vermilion and Iberia Railroad Development District, hereinafter referred to as the “district”, is hereby created and is declared to be a body politic and political subdivision of the state of Louisiana, as defined in La. Const. Art. VI, § 44 .  Pursuant to Article VI, Sections 19 and 21 of the Constitution of Louisiana, the district, acting through its board of commissioners, the governing authority of said district, is hereby granted all of the rights, powers, privileges, and immunities granted to political subdivisions for economic development purposes, including but not limited to the power of taxation, the power to incur debt and issue revenue and general obligation bonds, certificates of indebtedness, bond and certificate anticipation notes, and refunding bonds, subject to the limitations hereinafter provided.

B.  The district created pursuant to this Section shall be established for the primary object and purpose of promoting and encouraging development of the rail service running between Vermilion and Iberia parishes, to stimulate the economy through renewed commerce, industry, and for the utilization and development of natural and human resources of the area by providing job opportunities.

C.  The boundaries of the district shall be coterminous with the boundaries of Vermilion and Iberia parishes.

Acts 2010, No. 780, §1.