THIS WEEK'S NEWS:
This week SCR 19 by Sen Talbot took another step in the process and only now needs to be heard on the House floor. SCR 19 would set up a task force to study and report on the impediments that truckers have in obtaining affordable insurance. The task force will be looking at approaches that other states have taken and the economic impact of commercial insurance on state revenue. Recommendations will be made to increase the number of insurers offering insurance in the state. LMTA has a seat on the Task Force so will be represented.
As reported earlier in the week, HB 594 by Rep Larvadain which would have moved mobile enforcement to DOTD from LSP was deferred in committee. Watch Renee Amar testify during the bill deferment about what truckers have been experiencing since DOTD took over enforcement of the scale houses.
SB 50 by Sen Abraham was initially filed to setup the Calcasieu Parish Tolling Authority. There was an amendment two weeks ago that would have amended the bill so the toll would be in place in perpetuity for use on other projects in the area. That amendment never received a 2nd from the committee so the bill was deferred. This week the bill was amended to take money from the megafund to help offset some or eliminate the tolls. It will essentially be used as the funding for the shadow toll for the bridge. LMTA has setup an action alert asking each member to send a message to the senate floor that we oppose a toll on the Calcasieu River bridge and especially oppose being the only people who pay the toll.