🚨 Controversial Amendment to HB 148
In a surprising move, provisions from the previously stalled HB 576 were incorporated into HB 148. This amendment, introduced by Rep. Brian Glorioso (R-Slidell), grants the Insurance Commissioner expanded authority to disapprove rate filings, removing established definitions for market competitiveness and eliminating transparent benchmarks. Critics argue that this change introduces regulatory uncertainty and undermines recent reform efforts. Despite bipartisan concerns, the amendment passed the House with a 67-33 vote.
✅ Progress on Legal Reform Bills
Several key legal reform bills supported by the Louisiana Motor Transport Association (LMTA) advanced in the House:
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HB 34: Eliminates recovery of phantom damages, ensuring compensation aligns with actual medical costs. Passed 69-26.
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HB 427: Establishes reversionary trusts for future medical expenses. Passed 63-23.
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HB 431: Implements modified comparative fault, limiting damage recovery if the plaintiff is over 51% at fault. Passed 67-26.
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HB 432: Enhances oversight of third-party litigation funding. Passed 83-6.
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HB 439: Caps attorney contingency fees on the first $15,000. Passed 57-30.
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HB 449: Requires disclosure of an attorney's interest in certain cases. Passed 63-23.
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HB 450: Eliminates the judicial presumption linking accidents to injuries without evidence. Passed 68-24.
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HB 434: Introduces a "No Pay, No Play" policy with a $100K cap. Passed 76-14.
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HB 435: Sets a general damages cap at $5 million. Passed 63-23.
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HB 436: Prohibits certain damages recovery by unauthorized aliens. Passed 69-17.
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HB 443: Mandates pre-suit notice. Passed 70-22.
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HB 440: Establishes a duty to mitigate damages. Passed 64-27.
🔍 Looking Ahead
As these bills move to the Senate, the LMTA anticipates a more challenging environment. Stakeholders are encouraged to remain engaged and voice their positions to ensure that the trucking industry's interests are represented and protected.
For more detailed information, you can visit the following links:
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