THIS WEEK'S NEWS:
This week will be brief considering we will Sine Die next week. That means you will receive a more comprehensive wrap up of session the week after.
HIGHLIGHTS FOR TRUCKERS:
SB 196 by Sen Peacock is the bill that mandates disclosure of third party litigation financing arrangements. Currently, no one knows when a third party firm invests in their lawsuit and it makes it difficult for both sides to navigate the lawsuit once the TPLF is engaged. The bill only needs one more stop on the Senate floor until it heads to Governor Edwards desk for signature or veto.
HB 221 by Rep Wright was reported favorably out of the senate committee. Next up it will need to clear the house floor. This is the bill that would give more legislative oversight to regulations being issued by state agencies; a concept that LMTA strongly supports and encourages lawmakers to support.
Two resolutions were filed by Rep Knox, HCR 135 dealt with the Office of Motor Vehicles and our compliance with FMCSA’s drug and alcohol clearing house. The other was HCR 142 which was much more problematic asking DOTD to study whether we should receive annual training to ensure we are in compliance with all state and federal regulations. After many discussions with the bill author, he heard our concerns and was agreeable to amending the language. We will continue to monitor all legislative instruments until June 8.
