HOUSE floor amendment technical.

HOUSE Commerce committee amendment [LINK] strikes parish or municipality requirement to provide any individual permit data upon request. "(3) Provide, upon request, individual permit data."

Implications:

Could raise costs for contractors due to new rules. Small contractors could struggle with these extra costs. Also, the law doesn’t let local areas opt out, which might conflict with their desire to control their own rules instead of following a single statewide standard.

The bill creates a new law (R.S. 40:1730.23(K)) to set consistent roofing permit and inspection rules for cities and parishes in Louisiana

1. For non-residential buildings (except one- and two-family homes), roofing must follow Chapter 15 of the International Building Code.
2. For one- and two-family homes, roofing must meet Chapters 8 and 9 of the International Residential Code, as adopted by Louisiana’s Uniform Construction Code.
3. Permit information must be shared when requested.

HOUSE floor amendments [LINK] allow for restitution and for the Attorney General to seek restitution from third party reservation platforms.

Implications:

This bill creates a new law to stop third-party websites or apps from offering restaurant reservations without permission.

It defines what counts as a food service business (like restaurants and cafeterias) and what a third-party reservation platform is (like apps or websites that take reservations but aren’t owned by the restaurant).

The bill makes it illegal for these third-party platforms to list or sell reservations for a restaurant unless they have a contract with the restaurant or its representative.

If they break this rule, the attorney general can fine them up to $1,000 per day, per restaurant. The money from those fines will go toward consumer protection and education efforts.

The goal is to protect restaurants from having their reservations used or sold without their consent.

Proposes to enact Chapter 69 of Title 51 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes (R.S. 51:3291), titled "Restaurant Reservation Anti-Piracy." 1. Defines "food service establishment" (e.g., restaurants, cafeterias) and "third-party restaurant reservation platform" (websites or apps offering reservations, not owned by the establishment). 2. Prohibits third-party platforms from listing, advertising, promoting, or selling reservations for a food service establishment without a contractual agreement with the establishment or its designee. 3. Authorizes the attorney general to impose a civil penalty of up to $1,000 per violation, with violations accruing daily per establishment. 4. Directs collected penalties to be used by the attorney general for consumer protection and education. The bill seeks to protect food service establishments from unauthorized reservation practices by third-party platforms, ensuring contractual agreements are in place.

Implications:

This bill changes how much advance notice banks must get when someone requests customer financial records through a legal process.

Right now, the law requires 30 business days of notice. This bill changes that to 30 calendar days, making the waiting period shorter and more predictable.

This applies to two things:

1. The affidavit the requesting party must give the bank, showing they served notice to the customer or their lawyer.
2. The minimum notice banks must receive before having to turn over records.

The bill keeps current rules that require the requester to pay the bank for any reasonable costs, like making copies or doing research. If there’s a disagreement over those costs, the bank doesn’t have to provide the records until a court decides what’s fair.

In short, the bill speeds up the process slightly by switching from business days to calendar days, while keeping protections for banks in place.

Proposes changes to real estate brokerage practices. It amends existing law to clarify broker compensation sources, stating that funds may come from buyers, sellers, listing agents, listing brokers, or a combination. The bill prohibits requiring a buyer agreement before showing a property but mandates one before submitting an offer on behalf of a buyer for compensation. Additionally, it establishes advertising requirements for residential real estate, ensuring that property listings accurately reflect terms, value, and services. The bill also mandates that buyer’s brokerage fees be disclosed in all public advertisements.

HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] adds that criminal history record information used by the board is confidential. It limits the use of this information strictly to evaluating an applicant’s eligibility and prohibits disclosure without the applicant’s written consent, unless ordered by a court.

Proposes amendments to Louisiana's statutes governing private security examiners. The bill aims to refine definitions and enhance the authority of the Louisiana State Board of Private Security Examiners concerning criminal history record information.

Key Proposed Changes:

1. Expanded Definition of "Applicant": The term is broadened to include individuals seeking issuance or reinstatement of any license, registration, certificate, permit, or designation necessary to engage in private security practices in Louisiana.
2. Redefinition of "Qualifying Agent": The updated definition specifies that a qualifying agent is any owner or manager of a private security business with the authority to make executive decisions and who meets qualifications outlined in R.S. 37:3276.
3. Introduction of "Licensure": The bill introduces this term to encompass the granting of any license, permit, certification, or registration that the board is authorized to issue.
4. Authority to Obtain Criminal History Record Information: The bill emphasizes the importance of regulating licensure and registration of private security personnel for public safety. It defines terms such as "armored car company," "contract security company," and "instructor." Additionally, it clarifies that "criminal history record information" includes all state records of arrest, prosecution, and conviction, even those expunged or dismissed under specific legal provisions, and may include national records with fingerprints and other identifying information if requested by the board.

Imposes stricter regulatory framework for private security examiners in Louisiana, ensuring that individuals and businesses in this sector meet defined qualifications and standards to promote public safety.

AUTOMATIC INCREASE IN FEES REMOVED

Implications:

Biennial Fee Adjustments:

Starting July 1, 2027, and every two years thereafter, the fees specified will increase by 4%.

Proposes amendments to the fee structure for private contract security companies as regulated by the Louisiana State Board of Private Security Examiners.

Proposed Fee Adjustments:

• Company License Fees:
• Initial company license fee set at $500.
• Company license renewal fee set at $410.
• Guard Registration Fees:
• Initial guard registration fee set at $75.
• Guard registration renewal fee set at $65.
• Instructor License Fees:
• Classroom instructor license or renewal fee set at $110.
• Baton instructor license or renewal fee set at $130.
• Firearms instructor license or renewal fee set at $160.
• Miscellaneous Fees:
• Company/instructor examination fee set at $60.
• Status change, transfer, or reinstatement fee set at $30.

HOUSE floor amendments [LINK] adds a transition rule for current commissioners. It states that any commissioner serving on the effective date of the Act may serve only one additional four-year term and must wait at least four years after that term before being eligible to serve again. Other minor technical changes.

HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] shorten commission terms from six years to four years and limits commissioners to two consecutive four-year terms (eight years total). After serving two terms, a four-year break is required before reappointment.

Proposes amendments to the Louisiana Real Estate Commission's appointment terms. Currently, commissioners serve a single six-year term. The bill seeks to allow commissioners to serve up to two consecutive six-year terms. The proposed changes would take effect immediately upon the governor's signature or upon the lapse of time for gubernatorial action.

HOUSE commerce committee amendments [LINK] require the appointed receiver to submit a detailed transition and operational plan within 90 days, clarify the types of enforceable legal actions covered, specify bonding requirements for private receivers and exempt local governments from bonding, and explicitly allow a receiver to purchase the company under receivership.

Proposes the enactment of R.S. 45:1206 to establish provisions for the court-appointed receivership of water and wastewater companies regulated by the commission. The bill defines "water company" and "wastewater company" and outlines specific conditions under which a court may appoint a receiver to manage such companies' assets and operations. These conditions include abandonment by the operator, cessation of services without arrangements for continued operation, non-compliance with administrative orders from the Louisiana Department of Health or the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, financial distress as determined by a commission audit, and other circumstances identified by commission rules. The appointed receiver is required to post a bond, unless they represent a local governmental subdivision, and must adhere to court directives until discharged. The bill also allows for the dissolution of the receivership if the original owner or operator demonstrates good cause.

Proposes amendments to R.S. 51:912.22(8) concerning the installation standards for manufactured and modular homes in flood-prone areas. The bill mandates that such homes' foundations comply with the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) "Manufactured Home Installation In Flood Hazard Areas" manual. It also prohibits state and local subdivisions from enforcing regulations more restrictive than FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program standards. Additionally, the bill requires that permits issued by local jurisdictions include both the Base Flood Elevation and the Free Board Elevation of the finished floor, as indicated on the current Flood Insurance Rate Map.

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT

Proposes a constitutional amendment to increase the membership of the Louisiana Public Service Commission from five to seven members. Currently, all five commissioners are elected for overlapping six-year terms from single-member districts. The proposed amendment retains these five elected positions and adds two at-large members appointed by the governor, subject to Senate approval, who would serve at the governor's pleasure for up to two consecutive four-year terms. This amendment is scheduled to be presented to voters in a statewide election on November 3, 2026.

HOUSE floor amendments [LINK] add enforcement authority, reporting requirements, and penalties for earned wage access providers. It authorizes the attorney general to enforce violations under the Unfair Trade Practices Act and prohibits providers from using false, misleading, or deceptive advertising. Providers must submit detailed annual reports to the Office of Financial Institutions by March 1 each year, including data on revenue, transaction volume, fees, and consumer complaints. The office must publish an aggregated public report by July 1. Providers who fail to submit the required report on time lose access to the protections of the law, and any agreements they make with consumers are declared null and void. The first report is due by March 1, 2027.

HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] require providers who charge fees for earned wage access to annually report detailed data to the Office of Financial Institutions. The required information includes the number of consumers served, types and averages of fees charged, transaction details, consumer complaints and resolutions, and compliance with no-cost access requirements. The Office of Financial Institutions must publish an annual aggregated report of this data.

Proposes the Louisiana Earned Wage Access Services Act. This legislation aims to regulate earned wage access (EWA) services, which allow consumers to access their earned but unpaid income.

The bill distinguishes between two types of EWA services:

1.    Consumer-Directed EWA Services: Where consumers access their earned income based on their representation and the provider's reasonable determination of the earned but unpaid income.

2.    Employer-Integrated EWA Services: Where access to earned income is based on data obtained directly or indirectly from an employer.

Key provisions of the bill include:

·       Definitions: Clarifies terms such as "consumer," "earned but unpaid income," "employer," and "provider."

·       Provider Obligations: Outlines the responsibilities and prohibitions for EWA service providers to ensure consumer protection.

·       Statutory Compliance: Specifies that providers must comply with the regulations set forth in this Act.

HOUSE floor amendments [LINK] shift responsibility for sanitation and safety training from the Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology to the Office of Public Health within the Louisiana Department of Health. They require mobile salon owners to complete sanitation training annually, administered by the Office of Public Health. Additionally, the amendments remove certain certification requirements for mobile salons, clarifying that mobile salons are exempt from the certification of registration required for traditional beauty shops or salons.

HOUSE committee amendments technical

Proposes amendments to the Louisiana Cosmetology Act to establish a special permit for natural hair braiding services. The bill defines "natural hair braiding" as the twisting, wrapping, weaving, extending, locking, or braiding of hair by hand or with mechanical devices, including the use of natural or synthetic hair extensions and decorative accessories. It explicitly excludes activities involving dyes, reactive chemicals, or chemical hair joining agents. To obtain the special permit, applicants must review sanitation and safety training materials prepared by the Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology, pass a 15-question examination with at least a 70% score, complete the application process, and pay a fee not exceeding $25.

Specifically, the bill exempts natural hair braiding services from the broader licensing requirements applicable to cosmetologists, recognizing the distinct nature of these services. Additionally, it preempts local governments from regulating natural hair braiding, ensuring a uniform statewide standard.

HOUSE bureau floor amendment technical

HOUSE floor amendment set 3109 [LINK] requires excavators or demolishers to submit a written incident report within 72 hours if underground utilities are damaged, including details such as the date, description of damage, actions taken, and photos if available. It also adds a new precaution: in areas identified as high-risk for underground utility congestion by the Office of Broadband Development or DOTD, excavators must review and use available utility mapping data before starting work.

HOUSE floor amendment set 3025 [LINK] clarifies and modifies the timeline requirements for compliance with utility damage prevention law. It replaces a reference to existing statute with specific deadlines: 20 calendar days for routine demolition or excavation, and 30 calendar days for agricultural, forestry, or marine-related excavation or demolition. It also makes minor wording and formatting changes for clarity and consistency.

HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] redefine "large project excavation or demolition" as a contiguous excavation or demolition activity that cannot reasonably meet standard completion timelines. They also clarify that weekends and holidays do not count toward the required mark-by-time period, giving excavators additional flexibility in timing.

ORIGINAL BILL:

Proposes amendments to the Louisiana Underground Utilities and Facilities Damage Prevention Law. The key provisions of this bill include:

1.    Definition of "Manual Probing": The bill introduces a definition for "manual probing," specifying it as the use of non-mechanized, commercially manufactured devices to locate underground utilities or facilities.

2.    Excavation and Demolition Notifications: It mandates that excavators or demolishers must notify the regional notification center at least 48 hours, but no more than 120 hours (excluding weekends and holidays), before commencing any excavation or demolition activities. Additionally, these activities should begin within 120 hours after the designated mark-by time. Failure to adhere to this timeframe, without mutual agreement for extension or extraordinary circumstances (such as weather events or equipment failures), will be considered a violation.

3.    Training Requirements: The bill requires that at least one individual on-site during excavation or demolition must have proof of completing training provided by the Regional Notification Center. This training must be renewed annually and is available online at no cost. However, individuals certified under certain federal operator qualification programs (specifically Title 49 CFR Parts 192 or 195) are exempt from this requirement.

4.    Large Project Excavations: For extensive excavation or demolition projects that cannot be reasonably completed within standard timeframes, the bill allows for written agreements between operators and excavators or demolishers to set specific mark-by times and project durations. If such an agreement isn't reached within 30 calendar days of submission to the Regional Notification Center, the initial large project notification becomes void. In such cases, the excavator or demolisher must cancel the large project notice and submit a routine excavation or demolition notice as per standard procedures.

Seeks to expand the Louisiana Public Service Commission from five to seven members. Key changes include:

1. Adding Two Appointed Members:

  - The two new members will be appointed by the governor and will represent the state-at-large.

  - These members require Senate approval and will serve at the governor’s pleasure for up to two consecutive four-year terms.

2. Commissioner Qualifications:

  - Elected members must be 18 years old, residents of Louisiana for two years, and domiciled in their district for one year before election.

  - Appointed members must be 18 years old and have been Louisiana residents for two years.

3. Terms:

  - Elected members continue to serve six-year overlapping terms.

  - Appointed members serve at the pleasure of the governor, with a maximum of two consecutive four-year terms.

4. Quorum Adjustment:

  - Increasing quorum requirement from three to four commissioners for official business transactions.

5. Staffing:

  - 37 full-time employee positions are allocated across districts.

  - Additional staffing will be provided for the newly appointed commissioners.

6. District Designation:

  - Current elected commissioners in office as of January 1, 2023, will continue representing their respective districts.

The bill modifies R.S. 45:1161.1, 1161.2(B), 1161.3, and 1161.4(B) to accommodate these changes.

Prevents credit card companies from charging swipe fees on state/local taxes and gratuities during electronic payment transactions in Louisiana.

Key Provisions: 

1. Definitions: 

  Establishes definitions for terms like "swipe fee," "payment card," "gratuity," "payment card network," and "assessment fee."

2. Swipe Fee Exclusion: 

  - Prohibits swipe fees from being charged on separately listed state/local taxes and gratuities. 

  - Payment card networks must either: 

    - Exclude tax and gratuity from swipe fee calculations during settlement. 

    - Provide a rebate to merchants for swipe fees applied to taxes and gratuities. 

3. Process for Rebate: 

  - Merchants must provide proof if they cannot transmit tax and gratuity amounts at the time of sale. 

  - Rebates must be provided within 180 days of the transaction or within 30 days of merchant submission. 

4. Unlawful Practices: 

  - Prohibits manipulation of swipe fees to circumvent this law. 

5. Enforcement & Penalties: 

  - Attorney General can enforce penalties up to $1,000 per violation. 

  - Injunctions can be sought to prevent ongoing violations. 

  - Violators must refund merchants for improper fees. 

  - Penalties are credited to the state treasury. 

6. Severability Clause: 

  - Invalid provisions will not affect the remainder of the Act. 

7. Effective Date: 

  - Becomes effective upon the Governor’s signature or lapse of time for gubernatorial action. 

Implication: 

If passed, the bill will protect merchants from paying swipe fees on tax and tip amounts, potentially reducing operational costs.

Proposes the enactment of R.S. 51:1430, regulating discriminatory practices by large financial institutions in Louisiana. It aims to prevent institutions from denying financial services based on specific non-financial criteria. 

Key Definitions 

1. Adverse Action: 

  - Refusing, terminating, or restricting financial services. 

  - Does not include: 

    - Changes agreed to by applicants. 

    - Actions related to inactivity, default, or delinquency. 

    - Refusals based on legal prohibitions or unavailable services. 

2. Discrimination in Financial Services: 

  - Taking adverse action based on: 

    - Religious beliefs or practices. 

    - Protected speech or expression. 

    - Refusal to adopt greenhouse gas emissions targets beyond legal requirements. 

    - Refusal to conduct diversity, racial, or gender audits. 

    - Refusal to assist with abortions or gender transition services. 

    - Participation in fossil-fuel-related industries or firearms-related industries. 

3. Financial Institution: 

  - Banks with over $100 billion in assets. 

  - Payment processors or networks processing over $100 billion in transactions yearly. 

  - Includes subsidiaries and affiliates of these entities. 

4. Financial Service: 

  - Any financial product or service offered by a financial institution. 

Prohibitions 

1. No Discrimination: Financial institutions cannot deny services based on the criteria outlined above. 

2. No Coordination: Institutions cannot conspire with others to engage in prohibited discrimination. 

3. No False Reporting: Institutions cannot provide misleading information about their reasons for denying services. 

Rights and Remedies 

1. Requesting Reasons for Adverse Action: 

  - Affected individuals can request explanations within 90 days. 

  - Financial institutions must respond within 30 days, detailing specific reasons for denial. 

2. Civil Actions: 

  - Individuals may seek: 

    - Actual damages or $10,000 per violation (whichever is greater). 

    - Enhanced damages for willful violations (up to three times the actual damages or $30,000). 

    - Injunctions or other preventive relief. 

  - Legal fees are awarded to prevailing plaintiffs. 

3. Bad Faith Clause: 

  - Financial institutions can recover legal fees if the lawsuit is proven to be filed in bad faith. 

Severability Clause 

If any part of the act is deemed invalid, the rest shall still be enforceable. 

Purpose and Intent 

The bill aims to ensure financial institutions cannot discriminate against customers based on protected speech, religious beliefs, political affiliations, or involvement in certain industries. It establishes transparency requirements and provides recourse for those who feel wronged by such actions.

Mandates that any new or replacement residential roof in parishes entirely within Louisiana’s coastal zone must meet or exceed fortified roof standards set by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS).

Key Provisions: 

- Applies to all parishes fully within the coastal zone as defined in existing law. 

- Requires compliance with IBHS fortified roof standards for both new construction and roof replacements on residential properties.

Impact: 

- Will increase upfront construction costs but aims to reduce storm damage and insurance costs.

Prohibits individuals from receiving proceeds from financial instruments (e.g., CDs, IRAs, pension plans, mutual funds) if they are found criminally responsible for or judicially determined to have participated in the intentional, unjustified killing of the account holder. If disqualified, proceeds are redirected to a contingent beneficiary or to the account holder’s estate if no contingent beneficiary exists.

Key Provisions: 

- Applies to financial instruments payable on death, injury, or disablement. 

- A beneficiary is disqualified if: 

 (1) Found criminally responsible by final judgment, or 

 (2) Judicially determined to have participated in the intentional, unjustified killing. 

- Disqualified beneficiaries forfeit all proceeds. 

- Proceeds go to a secondary/contingent beneficiary or, if none, to the estate.

Authorizes municipalities and parishes to regulate short-term rentals by local ordinance. Permitted regulatory measures include requiring permits, registrations, inspections, fines, safety standards, limits on stay duration, and occupancy caps. Defines short-term rental as residential property rented for fewer than 29 consecutive days.

Defines revenue-based financing (RBF) transactions as agreements where a business sells or forwards a percentage of its revenue or income, with repayment amounts varying based on revenue performance. The bill declares that such transactions are not considered loans or the use of money. Revenue-based financing is a funding arrangement where a business receives capital from an investor or funder in exchange for a percentage of the business’s ongoing gross revenue. Repayment amounts fluctuate based on the business’s monthly revenue—higher payments in strong months, lower in slow months—until a predetermined total repayment amount is reached.

Key Provisions: 

- Amounts charged in an RBF transaction, including fees or discounts, are not considered interest. 

- No requirement to disclose interest rates, factor rates, or APRs.

Effect: 

Clarifies that RBF is not subject to lending laws governing interest disclosures, reducing regulatory requirements for providers of this type of financing.   

Adds: R.S. 9:3137.10

HOUSE floor amendment technical

HOUSE committee amendment [LINK] requir4es virtual currency kiosk operators to use blockchain analytics software to detect fraud, adopt a written anti-fraud policy with specific internal controls, and implement an Enhanced Due Diligence Policy targeting individuals at higher risk of fraud due to age or mental capacity. It also adds new statutory provisions outlining these obligations and gives the commissioner authority to request compliance evidence.

Introduces a regulatory framework for virtual currency kiosks in Louisiana. It defines relevant terms, clarifies that kiosk operators are engaged in virtual currency business activity, and requires them to be licensed. The bill also includes basic consumer protection standards.

 Key Provisions: 

- Defines “fiat currency,” “virtual currency kiosk,” “virtual currency kiosk operator,” and “virtual currency kiosk transaction” 

- Recognizes virtual currency kiosk operators as part of Louisiana’s broader virtual currency ecosystem 

- Requires licensure, creating a clear path for compliant operation in the state 

- Sets a $3,000 daily transaction cap per user to deter misuse without overly restricting access 

- Allows a 72-hour transaction delay or cancellation window to protect users from scams 

- Requires kiosks to post a clear anti-fraud warning for consumer awareness

Other HOUSE floor amendments technical

HOUSE floor amendment set 3126 [LINK] adds a new section that exempts a specific legal case from the bill’s provisions. It states that the bill will not apply retroactively to the case Cantium, LLC v. Rosefield Fourchon Operating, LLC, currently pending before the Louisiana Public Service Commission, or to any appeals or related claims between the parties in that case. This ensures that the outcome of that ongoing dispute will not be affected by the changes made in the bill.

HOUSE committee amendment [LINK] clarifies pipes and equipment used only inside a petroleum terminal are excluded from pipeline regulations, and companies that aren't common carriers are also excluded.

Clarifies that only petroleum pipeline facilities that are necessary or integral to pipeline transportation fall under regulation by the Public Service Commission. It excludes terminal facilities (e.g., small pipes, meters, tanks) and truck unloading facilities from regulation. The bill also defines "common carrier" and "pipeline" more narrowly and applies both retroactively and prospectively.

Broadens the Louisiana State Racing Commission’s authority by allowing the appointment of up to three additional stewards. The bill also permits racetracks that hold both sports wagering and racing licenses to offer pari-mutuel wagering within their retail sports book lounges, contingent on an approved operational plan by the Racing Commission and Gaming Control Board. The overall intent is to support and stabilize the horse racing industry through regulatory and operational flexibility.

HOUSE APPROPS committee amendments [LINK] replace a fixed wage increase with a rule-based determination, define and use a "regional average wage" to set eligibility criteria, clarify that companies can't simultaneously receive benefits from the Quality Jobs Program, and establish a capped, tiered formula for annual fund deposits from corporate taxes.

HOUSE commerce committee amendments [LINK] make technical corrections and clarify eligibility and funding criteria. They specify wage standards for new jobs, clarify that businesses retaining (rather than employing) a minimum number of jobs qualify, prohibit simultaneous participation in the Quality Jobs Program, and ensure deposits into the High Impact Job Fund include both corporate income and franchise tax collections.

Establishes the High Impact Jobs Program within Louisiana Economic Development (LED) to incentivize high-wage job creation and retention.

Key Provisions:

Creates a reimbursable grant program for companies that:

 - Pay wages above parish averages

 - Offer basic health benefits

 - Hire full-time Louisiana employees

Grant amounts:

 - 8% of annual wages for jobs in distressed areas paying ≥110% of parish average wage

 - 18% for jobs paying ≥125% but <150% of parish average wage

 - 22% for jobs paying ≥150% of parish average wage

 - Maximum of $200,000 per year per job

Grants also available to retain highly skilled workers with advanced degrees

Ineligible sectors include gaming, retail, pro sports, construction, and local utilities

Companies cannot receive other LED incentives for the same jobs or expenditures

Establishes the High Impact Job Fund, funded by up to $25 million per year from corporate income tax collections

Program ends for new applicants after July 1, 2035

Effective date: July 1, 2025

HOUSE floor amendments [LINK] create separate certifications: an "alternative hair design" registration for natural hair braiding within licensed salons, and a "natural hair braiding" special permit for practice outside salons. They establish training, examination, sanitation, fees, renewal, inspection requirements, consumer protections, and set an effective date of January 1, 2026, for braiding permits.

Defines natural hair braiding as an unregulated service, exempt from state and local licensing. Preempts local regulation. Creates optional 500-hour certification for “alternative hair designers” who want to use that title or work in licensed salons. Braiders not using chemicals or dyes may operate freely without a license.

HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] allow licensed lenders to choose between two sets of rates for certain consumer loans, define key terms, cap fees to those already authorized, and require annual inflation-based updates to the loan cap. They give the commissioner authority to enforce lending laws, repeal outdated credit union restrictions, and slightly soften borrower notice language about available assistance.

Creates a new regulatory framework for licensed lenders to raise interest rates on predatory small consumer installment loans.

 Key Provisions: 

- Applies to precomputed consumer loans of $5,500 or less. 

- Authorizes a maximum APR of 59% using the actuarial method. 

- Loans must be repaid in substantially equal monthly installments. 

- Prohibits lenders from requiring preauthorized electronic payments or post-dated checks as a condition of credit. 

- Requires clear borrower disclosures and prohibits holding or accepting post-dated checks. 

- Adjusts the maximum loan amount annually based on the Consumer Price Index. 

- Grants the commissioner rulemaking and enforcement authority. 

- Does not apply to loans made primarily for business or commercial purposes.

Current law:

In Louisiana, the maximum APRs allowed for consumer loans under current law are:

- Loans up to $1,400: maximum APR is 36% 

- Portion of loans between $1,400.01 and $4,000: maximum APR is 27% 

- Portion of loans between $4,000.01 and $7,000: maximum APR is 24% 

- Portion of loans exceeding $7,000: maximum APR is 21%

These rates are established under Louisiana Revised Statutes § 9:3519(A). Lenders may also charge a nonrefundable origination fee of $50 and a documentary charge of $20, which are not considered part of the finance charge.

Increases the maximum number of pari-mutuel or offtrack wagering facilities licensed by the Louisiana State Racing Commission that may operate video draw poker devices in Jefferson Parish from 5 to 6. Affected Statute: R.S. 27:415(B) 

HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] change how horse racing funds are distributed. They decrease the share of funds used as racing purses to 55% for Thoroughbreds and 24% for Quarter Horses, and set aside specific percentages (14% for Thoroughbreds, 7% for Quarter Horses) for breeder awards. The funds for purses will go directly to the Horsemen's Bookkeeper, and the recognized horsemen’s group receiving certain funds is specifically named as the Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association.

Authorizes fixed odds wagering on horse races in Louisiana. 

Key Provisions: 

- Defines "fixed odds wagering on horse races" as wagers with predetermined odds on live or simulcast races. 

- Allows such wagering only under specific regulatory conditions, including consent from racetracks and horsemen’s groups. 

- Permits these wagers to be combined with other sports bets in parlays. 

- Establishes the Fixed Odds Horse Wagering Purse Supplement Fund. 

- Directs 5% of net gaming proceeds from fixed odds horse wagering to the fund. 

- Allocates 70% of the fund to thoroughbred purses and 30% to quarter horse purses. 

- Authorizes the Louisiana Gaming Control Board to set rules for fixed odds horse race wagering. 

- Effective upon signature of the governor.

HOUSE floor amendment set 2692 [LINK] clarifies definition of "minors" and further clarifies rules for mobile app stores and app developers to verify users' ages and protect minors. Developers remain primarily responsible for verifying age, while app stores may block harmful content and prevent illegal or inappropriate activities. The amendments prohibit arbitrary or anti-competitive behavior and set the effective date of the law as July 1, 2026.

HOUSE floor amendment set 2369 [LINK] tighten "may" to "shall" language in reference to sellers in two places (amends engrossed bill out of committee)

HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] define terms and clarify responsibilities for mobile app providers and developers regarding age verification and protection of minors. They specify that developers primarily handle age verification, allow providers to block harmful or illegal content, prevent misuse, and prohibit arbitrary or anti-competitive practices. The amendments also set an effective date of July 1, 2026.

Requires application stores and app developers to implement parental consent and age verification measures for minors using applications in Louisiana.

Key Provisions: 

- Defines age categories: child (under 13), younger teenager (13–15), older teenager (16–17), and adult (18+). 

- Requires app stores to verify user age at account creation using commercially available methods. 

- If a user is a minor, the app store must link the account to a verified parent account and obtain verifiable parental consent before allowing downloads or purchases. 

- Developers must use age data from app stores to apply safety features, comply with laws, and enforce age restrictions. 

- App stores and developers must notify parents of significant app changes and obtain renewed consent. 

- Limits the use and sharing of age verification data to what is necessary for compliance and safety. 

- Prohibits enforcement of terms of service against minors without verified parental consent. 

- Grants enforcement authority to the attorney general, with civil fines up to $10,000 per violation and $5,000 for violating court orders. 

- Requires a 45-day cure period before legal action and allows recovered funds to support consumer protection efforts.

HOUSE floor amendments technical

HOUSE committee amendments technical

Creates the Louisiana Equestrian Corporation to support and expand Louisiana’s equine industry through economic development, research, and facility development. 

Key Provisions: 

- Establishes a nonprofit corporation, not a state agency or political subdivision. 

- Purpose includes promoting equine heritage, jobs, research, and property development. 

- Nine-member board: 3 Horsemen’s Association designees, 4 parish presidents (Calcasieu, St. Landry, Bossier, Orleans), 2 governor appointees from higher education. 

- Grants authority to contract, acquire property, borrow funds, develop facilities, and partner with public/private entities. 

- Subject to public records and open meetings laws, with exceptions for property negotiations. 

- Corporation’s debts are not state liabilities; assets transfer to the state upon dissolution.

HOUSE floor amendments [LINK] require elevator inspections to be physically witnessed by a fire marshal-appointed inspector. Registered recreational camps are exempt. New requirements take effect January 1, 2026.

HOUSE committee amendments technical

Expands and clarifies the regulation, inspection, and certification requirements for conveyance devices (e.g., elevators, escalators) by the State Fire Marshal. 

Key Provisions: 

- Requires annual inspections of life safety systems to be physically witnessed by a Fire Marshal-appointed inspector. 

- Exempts certain two-story, single-tenant buildings from the annual inspection requirement, but mandates a safety test of the conveyance device every five years. 

- Establishes a new $150 fee for both initial and renewal inspections of conveyance devices. 

- Requires yearly inspection of conveyance devices by licensed inspectors in exchange for a certificate of operation issued by the Fire Marshal. 

- Empowers the Fire Marshal to order compliance when devices are found to be inoperable or unsafe. 

- Sets phased effective dates: 

 - Annual inspection requirement effective Jan. 1, 2026 

 - Five-year safety test requirement effective July 1, 2028 

- Repeals conflicting provisions from past legislative acts.

Consolidates regulation of new and used motor vehicle sales under the Louisiana Motor Vehicle Commission (LMVC), abolishing the Louisiana Used Motor Vehicle Commission. Merges the regulation of all dealers, dismantlers, recyclers, crushers, auctions, and related entities under LMVC.

Key Provisions:

- Abolishes the Louisiana Used Motor Vehicle Commission and transfers its duties, staff, assets, and responsibilities to the Louisiana Motor Vehicle Commission.

- Enacts the Louisiana Used Motor Vehicles, Parts, and Accessories Act to regulate used vehicle dealers and related businesses under LMVC.

- Requires licensure and bonding of independent used dealers, dismantlers, recyclers, crushers, auctions, and others.

- Sets fees, license terms, insurance, educational seminar, and record-keeping requirements.

- Establishes enforcement powers including license suspension/revocation, cease and desist orders, restitution, penalties, and injunctive relief.

- Clarifies definitions and licensing provisions for brokers, specialty vehicles, recreational products, and related entities.

- Consolidates used and new dealer regulations into a unified licensing, compliance, and enforcement framework.

- Provides for effective dates and a transition period with full implementation by July 1, 2025.

HOUSE floor amendments technical

HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] remove page three lines 10-19 in their entirety which are generally about how hair braiding is not a licensed action, etc. See BILL LINK page three.

Amends and repeals certain licensing requirements and regulations administered by the Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology regarding alternative hair and alternative hair design. It eliminates the special permit and the 500-hour instructional requirement for practitioners of alternative hair styling, citing the lack of significant health or safety risks and unnecessary barriers to economic opportunity.

Key Provisions: 

- Amends definitions for "alternative hair" and "alternative hair design," clarifying what activities are included and explicitly excluding the use of chemical or dye treatments on natural hair. 

- Removes the requirement for a Special Permit for Alternative Hair Design, previously mandatory for individuals practicing alternative hair styling. 

- Eliminates the rule mandating practitioners of alternative hair design to operate only within licensed cosmetology salons. 

- Repeals the mandatory 500-hour curriculum previously required for alternative hair design licensing. 

- Requires the state register to update the Louisiana Administrative Code accordingly.

The resolution argues that current licensing rules for alternative hair styling impose unnecessary economic barriers without providing meaningful health or safety protections.

Urges the Louisiana Public Service Commission to only approve a sale of Cleco Power if it includes firm guarantees that all service jobs and over 450 non-service jobs at the Pineville headquarters are preserved. Emphasizes Cleco’s economic importance to central Louisiana and cites the PSC’s duty to protect utility workers under its 1994 General Order.