From Executive Director Renee Amar
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Louisiana Motor Transport Association

www.lmta.lawww.lmta.foundation

lmta@lmta.la

(225) 928-5682

 

CAPITOL CORNER

LMTA's Legislative Overview - 2026 Session Week 4

 
 

HB 526: Cap Damages. Lower Costs. Show Up & Testify.

 

Beginning next Tuesday, April 7, a legislative committee at the State Capitol will take up HB 526 by Rep. Kellee Hennessy Dickerson - a big, bold proposal aimed at addressing rising insurance costs by placing reasonable limits on general damages, directly impacting your business, your premiums, and the future of trucking in Louisiana.

These reforms could bring long-overdue relief from excessive insurance costs and predatory legal practices - but they will not move forward without strong industry support. That's why we're calling on truckers across Louisiana to show up, pack the hearing rooms, and testify.

NEXT TUESDAY'S House Civil Law & Procedures Committee Meeting (Room 4)

- Tuesday, April 7 | 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM*

*End time is subject to change based on how long the committee takes to hear all bills.

Agenda 

Below is the bill to be heard during Tuesday's Civil Law & Procedure Committee. Many of these focus on reforming our legal system. If you have any testimony on this topic, we implore you to join us Tuesday!

  • HB 526 - DICKERSON | CIVIL/DAMAGES:  Provides limitations relative to claims for general damages

MORE INFORMATION

 

THIS WEEK AT THE CAPITOL WITH LMTA

 

Monday, March 30

Work began in Ways and Means, where LMTA supported HB 620 and HB 658. While neither bill advanced, this was due to a broader agreement this session that certain controversial instruments would not move forward.

 

Attention then shifted to the House floor, where LMTA maintained a full-day floor watch while awaiting action on HB 746 by Rep. Chuck Owen — our local government permit bill. This legislation remains a top priority, and we continued to monitor proceedings closely should it be called for a hearing.

 

Also on Monday, LMTA was present on the House floor for consideration of HB 185 (Workers’ Compensation) by Rep. Melerine. The bill passed the House on a strong 70–28 vote and successfully moved off the House floor, marking an important step forward on workers’ compensation reform.

 

Tuesday, March 31

 

LMTA remained on the House floor throughout the day, monitoring legislative activity and leadership movement on the calendar. We continued to stand by for potential action on HB 746 (Owen) while tracking developments across both chambers.

 

Wednesday, April 1

 

Wednesday morning began in the House Education Committee, where LMTA participated in hearings on HB 380 by Rep. Travis Johnson. Testimony was provided alongside Rep. Johnson and LCTCS President Richard Nelson. Following a robust discussion emphasizing the critical role truckers play in Louisiana’s economy, the importance of bringing more women into the profession, and the need for schools with integrity, HB 380 was reported favorably and unanimously from committee.

 

The remainder of the day was spent continuing floor watch, remaining ready for any movement on HB 746, which has yet to be taken up for a hearing.

IN THE HALLS: LMTA’s Renee Amar joined Travis Johnson and Richard Nelson as HB 380 moved out of committee this week.

 

Tell the Governor What Insurance Is Doing to Your Business

 

Louisiana’s commercial insurance crisis is getting worse, and it is not being fixed.

Companies have parked equipment, shifting expenses, cutting employees’ pay, or preparing to leave Louisiana entirely. If this continues, we will see the death of this industry.

 

We need you to speak directly to Governor Jeff Landry and show exactly what this is doing to your business.
 
If this is hitting your business, speak up.
If you’re losing business, say it.
If you’re considering shutting down or leaving Louisiana, make it known.
 
Send us a short video, about 20–30 seconds, or a brief written statement (2–4 sentences).
Start with: “Governor Landry,” and explain how insurance has personally impacted you and your business.
 
Use real numbers. That is what matters most. Say things like:
  • “My premiums increased ___% over ___ years.”
  • “My insurance went from $ to $___.”
  • “I can’t sustain this.”
  • “I’m considering shutting my doors.”
No general statements. Be direct.
 
Send your submission to:
 
 

Staying informed and involved is crucial not just during legislative session, but also throughout the year.

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This email was sent on behalf of The Louisiana Motor Transport Association (LMTA) located at 325 Florida Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70801. To unsubscribe click here. If you have questions or comments concerning this email contact lmta@lmta.la.