🕗 Senate Floor Votes Scheduled - at
SR194: Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to review and provide certain information to the Senate regarding Medicaid managed care contracts.
Last Action: Enrolled. Signed by the President of the Senate and sent to the Secretary of State by the Secretary of the Senate on 6/13/2025.
Date: 2025-06-12
Author: Regina Barrow (D)
SR196: Requests the Louisiana State Police to study and make recommendations to improve driving.
Last Action: Enrolled. Signed by the President of the Senate and sent to the Secretary of State by the Secretary of the Senate on 6/13/2025.
Date: 2025-06-12
Author: Regina Barrow (D)
SR197: Creates the Baton Rouge SWOT Analysis Study Commission.
Last Action: Enrolled. Signed by the President of the Senate and sent to the Secretary of State by the Secretary of the Senate on 6/13/2025.
Date: 2025-06-12
Author: Regina Barrow (D)
SR198: To express strong relations between the state of Louisiana in the United States and the Bantu kingdom of Buganda in Uganda.
Last Action: Enrolled. Signed by the President of the Senate and sent to the Secretary of State by the Secretary of the Senate on 6/13/2025.
Date: 2025-06-12
Author: Regina Barrow (D)
SR199: Commends and congratulates David Sickey on his election as chairman of the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana and to recognize his dedication to transparent, community-centered leadership.
Last Action: Enrolled. Signed by the President of the Senate and sent to the Secretary of State by the Secretary of the Senate on 6/13/2025.
Date: 2025-06-12
Author: Heather Cloud (R)
SR200: Requests the State Licensing Board for Contractors and the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Council to study and report to the legislature findings and recommendations regarding adoption of the fortified roof building standards into the building codes for the coastal zone.
Last Action: Enrolled. Signed by the President of the Senate and sent to the Secretary of State by the Secretary of the Senate on 6/13/2025.
Date: 2025-06-12
Author: Kirk Talbot (R)
SR201: Memorializes Congress to avoid reductions in Medicaid funding that would adversely affect Louisiana's hospitals and communities they serve.
Last Action: Enrolled. Signed by the President of the Senate and sent to the Secretary of State by the Secretary of the Senate on 6/13/2025.
Date: 2025-06-12
Author: Stewart Cathey (R)
Co-sponsors: Regina Barrow (D) Gerald Boudreaux (D) Gary Carter (D) Heather Cloud (R) Rick Edmonds (R) Cameron Henry (R) Samuel Jenkins (D) Patrick McMath (R) Gregory Miller (R) Beth Mizell (R) John Morris (R) Thomas Pressly (R) Mike Reese (R) Larry Selders (D) Kirk Talbot (R)
...and 10 more.
SR188: Creates a study commission to examine and recommend policies that facilitate the implementation of innovative, market-oriented energy and resilience financing solutions to empower Louisiana's economy.
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-11
Author: Royce Duplessis (D)
SR192: Requests the Senate Committee on Judiciary B to study recent technological advancements regarding lotteries and determine whether such advancements conform with Louisiana law.
Last Action: Enrolled. Signed by the President of the Senate and sent to the Secretary of State by the Secretary of the Senate on 6/13/2025.
Date: 2025-06-12
Author: Mike Reese (R)
SCR61: To authorize and direct the legislative auditor and the Department of Insurance to study the financial transactions of foreign and domestic insurers who are authorized to do and are doing business in Louisiana.
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-02
Author: Patrick Connick (R)
HB685: Provides relative to diversity, equity, and inclusion in state agencies (RE SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-21
Author: Emily Chenevert (R)
Substitute for House Bill No. 421 by Representative Chenevert
Prohibits state agencies and public universities from implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, practices, trainings, or hiring based on DEI considerations. Limits mandatory DEI coursework in undergraduate programs.
KEY PROVISIONS:
- Prohibits state agencies and public postsecondary institutions from maintaining DEI-related offices, initiatives, or trainings.
- Bans preferential treatment or requirements for DEI statements in employment, admissions, or state financial aid decisions.
- Requires public colleges to eliminate mandatory undergraduate coursework containing DEI-related content, except in programs explicitly focused on racial, ethnic, or gender studies.
- Allows faculty academic freedom and classroom discussions to continue unaffected.
- Mandates annual audits by the legislative auditor for compliance.
HCR50: Authorizes and directs the legislative auditor to study the efficiency, financial accountability, and effectiveness of the state Supreme Court, courts of appeals, and district courts
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-04
Author: Jerome Zeringue (R)
HCR61: Creates a special task force to study the interagency consultation process for data centers to ensure more complete natural resource planning and management
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-09
Author: Kimberly Coates (R)
SCR22: Requests the adoption of enhanced regional transmission planning processes that use a multi-scenario, multi-value framework to ensure long-term national security, grid reliability, and resilience.
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-27
Author: Royce Duplessis (D)
SCR58: Memorializes Congress to oppose any proposal that shifts the cost of SNAP to the states.
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-10
Author: Patrick McMath (R)
ALL of this is tax dollars. If it shifts back to the states in major part, the expansion will die.
Urges Congress to oppose proposals that shift a portion of SNAP (food assistance) program costs from the federal government to states. Highlights potential impacts on Louisiana, including an annual cost of $283 million to $473 million depending on error rates, and requests SNAP remain fully federally funded.
SB33: Authorizes an income tax credit for eligible state employees that identify cost savings in state agencies. (gov sig) (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-12
Author: Robert Allain (R)
Proposes the creation of the Government Accountability and Innovation for Net Savings (GAINS) tax credit program. This initiative aims to incentivize eligible state employees to propose and implement cost-saving measures within state agencies.
Key Provisions of the GAINS Tax Credit Program:
- Eligibility: The program targets full-time state employees who contribute to specific state retirement systems and do not have budgeting responsibilities within their agencies.
- Tax Credit Details: Eligible employees can receive an income tax credit equal to 30% of the annual certified savings resulting from their approved proposals. The credit distribution is structured as follows:
- 15% in the tax year when the savings are certified.
- 10% in the subsequent tax year.
- Annual Cap: The total amount of tax credits granted under this program is capped at $10 million per fiscal year.
The primary objective of this legislation is to encourage state employees to identify and implement strategies that enhance operational efficiency, conserve resources, and reduce waste, all while maintaining or improving service quality.
SB57: Constitutional Amendment to remove the income limitation for persons age sixty-five or older that qualify for the special assessment level for residential property receiving the homestead exemption. (2/3-CA13s1(A)) (1/1/27) (EG DECREASE LF RV See Note)
Last Action: Reconsidered. Read by title; returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-27
Author: Michael Fesi (R)
SENATE committee amendments technical
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT
Modifies the special assessment level for residential property benefiting from the homestead exemption. Currently, individuals aged 65 or older can qualify for this special assessment level, which freezes the assessed value of their property, provided their adjusted gross income does not exceed $100,000 (adjusted annually for inflation). This bill seeks to remove the income limitation for individuals aged 65 or older, allowing all seniors in this age group to benefit from the special assessment level regardless of their income. If approved, the amendment would take effect on January 1, 2026, and be presented to voters in the statewide election on November 15, 2025.
SB86: Constitutional amendment to remove the mandatory retirement age for judges. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (1/1/27)
Last Action: Reconsidered. Read by title; returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-07
Author: Regina Barrow (D)
SENATE committee amendments [LINK] narrow the bill’s scope by removing provisions that added a new constitutional article and eliminated all references to public employees. Removes all provisions related to mandatory retirement for public employees. The bill now only addresses public officers, such as judges. The amendments also delay the bill’s effective dates by one year.
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT
Proposes a constitutional amendment to eliminate the mandatory retirement age for judges and to prohibit age-based restrictions for holding public office or public employment in Louisiana. Currently, the Louisiana Constitution mandates that judges retire upon reaching the age of 70. This bill seeks to repeal that requirement, allowing judges to serve beyond their 70th birthday. Additionally, the proposed amendment would ensure that no individual is denied the right to hold public office or public employment solely based on age. If passed, this amendment would be presented to voters in a statewide election on November 15, 2025, and would take effect on January 1, 2026.
SB115: Constitutional amendment to extend eligibility for the special assessment level for residential property receiving the homestead exemption to certain persons. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (1/1/27) (EG DECREASE LF RV See Note)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-13
Author: Royce Duplessis (D)
SENATE committee amendments [LINK] deal with date changes.
This constitutional amendment would extend eligibility for the special assessment level on residential properties receiving the homestead exemption to persons meeting federal poverty guidelines.
Key Provisions:
- Creates a new special assessment level for residential property owners who annually meet federal poverty guidelines published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- To maintain eligibility, owners must remain qualified by annually meeting the federal poverty guidelines.
- Applies to tax years starting January 1, 2026, and requires voter approval at the statewide election on November 15, 2025.
SB155: Provides for emergency vehicle equipment for licensed surgeons. (8/1/25)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-20
Author: Jeremy Stine (R)
Allows licensed trauma surgeons to use flashing red emergency lights when responding to medical emergencies at Level I trauma centers.
Key Provisions:
- Authorizes general trauma surgeons licensed in Louisiana to equip their personal vehicles with a removable flashing red light.
- Applies only to surgeons actively practicing in the state and responding to emergencies at state-designated Level I trauma centers.
- Requires the Department of Public Safety to establish rules and verification procedures, including annual documentation and vehicle registration.
- Lights must be visible from 500 feet in normal sunlight.
- Effective August 1, 2025.
SB183: Creates the crime of unlawful accepting of a thing of value by a legislator. (8/1/25)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-13
Author: John Morris (R)
SENATE committee amendment [LINK] narrows the bill's scope to apply only to legislators and their spouses, rather than all public servants. They make it illegal for them to accept anything of value from a nongovernmental organization that receives state or legislatively directed funding. Definitions are updated to reflect this narrower focus.
Creates the crime of unlawful accepting of a thing of value by a public servant from organizations receiving funds from their agency.
Key Provisions:
- Prohibits public servants or their immediate family from accepting anything of economic value from a nongovernmental organization that receives funds from the public servant’s agency.
- Includes indirect receipt and aiding or abetting such conduct.
- Exempts tickets, meals, or reimbursements under $1,000 per year.
- Penalty: $5,000–$10,000 fine and/or 1 to 5 years imprisonment, with or without hard labor.
- Effective August 1, 2025.
SB196: Provides relative to homelessness. (8/1/25) (EG INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-29
Author: Robert Owen (R)
SENATE committee amendments [LINK] three pages of largely technical replacing terms like "individual" with "defendant" or "person" and standardize legal phrasing by changing "must" or "will" to "shall" and "should" to "may". No major policy change made.
Creates the "Homelessness Court Program Act" allowing district courts to establish specialized court programs for homeless individuals facing criminal charges. Participants may receive treatment, housing, and job support in lieu of traditional penalties. Sets eligibility, program structure, and discharge procedures.
Also creates the crime of "unauthorized camping on public property," punishable by fines or jail time. Offenders may be eligible for the homelessness court program if available.
Effective August 1, 2025.
SB199: Provides for the authority of the Department of Insurance in instances of fraud. (gov sig) (EG NO IMPACT See Note)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-07
Author: Brach Myers (R)
Clarifies that the Department of Insurance may take enforcement action against unlicensed individuals or entities engaged in the business of insurance if they commit unfair trade practices. Defines "business of insurance" broadly and authorizes the commissioner to act without formal hearing procedures for unlicensed parties. Allows electronic delivery of notices and preserves the right of aggrieved persons to seek legal remedies.
Effective upon governor’s signature.
SB200: Provides for restrictions to international intercollegiate athlete's compensation, rights, and athletic scholarships. (8/1/25)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-07
Author: Jeremy Stine (R)
Prohibits international college athletes from earning NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) compensation unless they have U.S. permanent legal status. Limits athletic scholarships awarded to international students to 25% per athletic program per year. Also bars international students from receiving athletic scholarships if they previously received financial support from a professional sports organization.
Effective August 1, 2025.
Titled the “Make American Athletics Great Again Act.”
SB214: Provides for the appointment of the commissioner of insurance. (2/3 - CA4s20) (8/1/28)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-20
Author: Royce Duplessis (D)
SENATE floor amendments [LINK] changes the appointment process for the commissioner. It specifies that the commissioner will be appointed by the governor for a six-year term, and that the appointment must receive Senate consent. If the legislature is in session, consent is given by majority vote through a resolution; if the legislature is not in session, consent is obtained by mail ballot.
SENATE committee amendments [LINK] adds four new members to the board or council, each appointed by the governor from specific organizations: the Louisiana Chapter of the Consumer Federation of America, United Policyholders, Inc., Housing LOUISIANA, and Invest in Louisiana. The amendment also renumbers a subsequent appointment to reflect these additions. Additionally, the amendments change the effective date of the Act to August 1, 2028, or the day after legislative override of a veto, whichever is later.
Summary:
- Replaces the elected office of Commissioner of Insurance with an appointed position.
- The governor appoints the commissioner from a list of three nominees submitted by a 9-member nominating committee with members selected by state officials and interest groups.
- Sets commissioner’s term at six years, with a two-term limit.
- Establishes qualifications, disqualifications, and removal criteria.
- Changes take effect at the end of the current elected commissioner’s term or upon a vacancy.
- Removes references to the commissioner as an elective office in multiple sections of law.
- Effective upon governor’s signature.
- Constitutional amendment threshold: two-thirds vote required (CA Art. IV, §20).
SB218: Provides relative to post conviction relief for defendants convicted by a non-unanimous jury verdict. (8/1/25)
Last Action: Reconsidered. Read by title; returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-27
Author: Royce Duplessis (D)
- Allows a person convicted by a non-unanimous jury verdict to seek post-conviction relief regardless of existing time limits or whether the claim is repetitive.
- Adds non-unanimous jury verdicts as a valid ground for post-conviction relief.
- Provides exceptions to jurisdictional bars for such claims under Articles 930.4 and 930.8 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.
- Effective August 1, 2025.
SB226: Prohibits foreign adversaries and prohibited foreign actors from participating in certain property transactions. (gov sig)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-14
Author: Valarie Hodges (R)
Co-sponsors: Beryl Amedee (R) Charles Owen (R)
SENATE floor amendments technical
SENATE committee amendments [LINK] significantly narrow the bill's scope, removing references to election-related provisions and focusing specifically on property-related restrictions. They clarify exceptions for individuals lawfully present in the U.S. and entities holding national security agreements with the Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S. (CFIUS).
A strong national security measure that protects Louisiana’s military bases, critical infrastructure, real estate assets, and election integrity from foreign adversaries and prohibited foreign actors, including hostile governments or entities under their influence.
Key Provisions:
- Prohibits foreign adversaries and prohibited foreign actors from purchasing, leasing, or acquiring immovable property in Louisiana within 50 miles of military bases, installations, camps, armories, training areas, National Guard facilities, Civil Air Patrol sites.
- Establishes the attorney general's authority to investigate and enjoin such transactions and initiate forfeiture or forced divestiture.
- Applies to real estate located near national security infrastructure, such as military bases and Civil Air Patrol facilities.
- Authorizes expropriation of property controlled by foreign adversaries within 50 miles of these sites, regardless of purchase date.
- Requires the Secretary of State to certify that proposed voting systems are not compromised by foreign adversaries or in violation of federal security laws before procurement.
- Allows penalties and forfeiture for violations and ensures protections for innocent third parties and lienholders.
Justification:
- Aligns with increasing federal concern about foreign influence in land ownership near sensitive sites and foreign involvement in technology affecting critical infrastructure.
- Enhances property security by preventing adversarial governments or actors from accumulating land near military and strategic assets.
- Strengthens public confidence in elections by ensuring voting systems are free from foreign manipulation/involvement or supply chain risks.
- As voting systems are critical infrastructure and under the purview of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), these clear enforcement tools protect public resources from being used to acquire insecure and dangerous technologies. CISA is a federal agency under the Department of Homeland Security that plays a key role in election security, infrastructure resilience, and cybersecurity coordination across federal, state, and local governments.
- Certification of voting machines must submit to compliance with U.S. Homeland Security and Election Assistance Commission Voluntary Voting System Guidelines (VVSG).
SB226 is a proactive safeguard that enhances state and national security, prevents foreign interference in Louisiana’s critical infrastructure which includes elections, and ensures transparency and accountability in real estate transactions involving potential adversaries. It is a commonsense measure consistent with federal national security regulations and priorities.
HCR15: Provides for limitations on appropriations to nongovernmental entities
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-10
Author: Phillip Tarver (R)
Co-sponsors: Mike Bayham (R) Beau Beaullieu (R) Beth Billings (R) Delisha Boyd (D) Les Farnum (R) Ed Larvadain (D) Dixon McMakin (R) Rodney Schamerhorn (R) Polly Thomas (R) Beryl Amedee (R) Raymond Crews (R) Kellee Dickerson (R) Peter Egan (R) Mike Johnson (R) Charles Owen (R) Francis Thompson (R) Jerome Zeringue (R)
...and 12 more.
Starting July 1, 2025, state budget bills cannot include funding for nongovernmental entities unless handled separately from funding for state agencies or political subdivisions. These entities must submit a funding request form by November 1 each year. Late requests need approval from the Joint Budget or Capital Outlay Committee before the filing deadline.
HCR16: Provides for the nongovernmental entity funding request (RE NO IMPACT See Note)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-10
Author: Dixon McMakin (R)
HOUSE floor amendments technical
HOUSE committee amendments technical
Changes the rules for private groups requesting state funding. Nonprofits must now list their tax-exempt status and submit their last three IRS Form 990s if available. Budgets must explain any "other charges," but no longer have to list salaries. These updates aim to improve transparency and consistency in funding requests.
HB126: Modifies the funding formula used to determine minimum state funding allocations to parish councils on aging and increases the minimum aggregate total that is to be appropriated annually to the office of elderly affairs for such allocations (EN +$3,524,736 GF EX See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: See Act.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Rodney Lyons (D)
Co-sponsors: Daryl Adams (D) Tony Bacala (R) Lawrence Bagley (R) Mike Bayham (R) Stephanie Berault (R) Beth Billings (R) Delisha Boyd (D) Chad Boyer (R) Ken Brass (D) Jacob Braud (R) Marcus Bryant (D) Rhonda Butler (R) Dewith Carrier (R) Wilford Carter (D) Kimberly Coates (R) Adrian Fisher (D) Barbara Freiberg (R) Kyle Green (D) Dodie Horton (R) Jason Hughes (D) John Illg (R) Steven Jackson (D) Travis Johnson (D) Edmond Jordan (D) Timothy Kerner (R) Jeremy LaCombe (R) Vanessa Caston Lafleur (D) Shane Mack (R) Denise Marcelle (D) Shaun Mena (D) Dustin Miller (D) Pat Moore (D) Candace Newell (D) Charles Owen (R) Tammy Phelps (D) Troy Romero (R) Laurie Schlegel (R) Annie Spell (R) Vincent St. Blanc (R) Sylvia Taylor (D) Francis Thompson (R) Joy Walters (D) Rashid Young (D) Regina Barrow (D) Gerald Boudreaux (D) Joseph Bouie (D) Gary Carter (D) Patrick Connick (R) Royce Duplessis (D) Jimmy Harris (D) Cameron Henry (R) Katrina Jackson-Andrews (D) Samuel Jenkins (D) Caleb Kleinpeter (R) Patrick McMath (R) Beth Mizell (R) Edward Price (D) Kirk Talbot (R) Glen Womack (R)
...and 54 more.
HOUSE committee amendment [LINK] effective only if and when the legislature separately appropriates funding for it, instead of immediately upon signature by the governor.
WHY would you leave this funding mechanism hanging out there?? This is RECURRING money? We are bankrupting ourselves.
Seeks to INCREASE FUNDING for parish councils on aging by adjusting the existing state allocation formula. The bill increases the per capita funding for residents aged 60 and older from $2.50 to $4.00 and raises the minimum allocation per parish from $100,000 to $150,000. Additionally, the total minimum annual appropriation for these distributions is set to rise from $6.9 million to approximately $10.49 million.
The funding, distributed quarterly by the Office of Elderly Affairs, ensures financial support for parish councils that provide essential services to senior citizens. The bill's provisions will not affect the 2025-2026 fiscal year but will take effect on July 1, 2025. If vetoed by the governor and later approved by the legislature, it will become effective immediately following such approval. By increasing these funding thresholds, the bill aims to strengthen resources available to aging populations across Louisiana.
HB160: Provides relative to ethics complaints
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-08
Author: Kellee Dickerson (R)
Co-sponsors: Robert Carter (D) Tehmi Chassion (D) Kathy Edmonston (R) Peter Egan (R) Adrian Fisher (D) Steven Jackson (D) Charles Owen (R) Joy Walters (D)
...and 3 more.
HOUSE floor amendments technical in nature
HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] further clarify procedures and protections related to filing complaints with the Board of Ethics. They differentiate between sworn complaints (notarized and allowed via mail, fax, online, or in-person) and non-sworn complaints (requiring in-person filing with ID). The amendments explicitly prohibit retaliation or intimidation against complainants, allowing complainants to sue for damages, attorney fees, and court costs if retaliation occurs. Additionally, they mandate penalties (attorney fees) against individuals who knowingly file false complaints.
Proposes amendments to Louisiana's ethics laws concerning the handling of complaints by the Board of Ethics. The key provisions of the bill are as follows:
- Complaint Submission Requirements: The bill mandates that all ethics complaints, whether sworn or non-sworn, must be submitted in writing and include the full name of the complainant. Additionally, complainants are required to file complaints in person at the offices of the ethics administration and present valid government-issued identification, such as a driver's license or passport, at the time of filing.
- Board's Consideration of Complaints: The proposed legislation specifies that the Board of Ethics shall consider any signed sworn complaint from any elector concerning violations within its jurisdiction. For non-sworn complaints, the board may consider them only after a two-thirds majority vote of its membership, provided the board has reason to believe a violation may have occurred.
- Notification Procedures: Upon deciding to investigate a complaint, the board is required to send, via certified mail, a certified copy of the vote, a detailed explanation of the matter including specific factual allegations, and a redacted copy of any complaint received (with the complainant's name removed) to both the accused and the complainant within ten days after the vote or receipt of a signed sworn complaint.
- Penalties for False Complaints: The bill introduces a provision that allows for the assessment of attorney fees against a complainant who knowingly and willfully files a false ethics complaint.
HB294: (Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to severance tax revenues remitted to parishes in which the associated severance occurs (EG -$65,000,000 GF RV See Note)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-04
Author: Lawrence Bagley (R)
Co-sponsors: Dennis Bamburg (R) Beryl Amedee (R) Beau Beaullieu (R) Ryan Bourriaque (R) Jacob Braud (R) Josh Carlson (R) Vincent Cox (R) Peter Egan (R) Julie Emerson (R) Gabe Firment (R) Adrian Fisher (D) Barbara Freiberg (R) Troy Hebert (R) Dodie Horton (R) Jacob Landry (R) Danny McCormick (R) Michael Melerine (R) Charles Owen (R) Rodney Schamerhorn (R) Joseph Stagni (R) Roger Wilder (R) John Wyble (R)
...and 17 more.
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT
Proposes a constitutional amendment to modify the distribution of severance tax revenues in Louisiana. Currently, the Louisiana Constitution mandates that 20% of the state severance tax on natural resources—excluding sulphur, lignite, or timber—be remitted to the parish where the extraction occurs. This remittance is subject to a cap, which was initially set at $850,000 annually per parish starting July 1, 2007, with adjustments for inflation each subsequent year.
The proposed amendment seeks to eliminate this cap, allowing parishes to receive the full 20% share of severance tax revenues without any dollar limitation. This change is slated to take effect on July 1, 2027, if approved. The amendment is scheduled to be presented to Louisiana voters during the statewide election on November 3, 2026.
The ballot proposition will read:
"Do you support an amendment to repeal limits on the dollar amount of state severance tax revenues paid to the parishes where the severance or production of natural resources occurs, thereby allowing parishes to keep a percentage of those revenues regardless of the dollar amount? (Effective July 1, 2027)"
HB379: Provides relative to mandatory binding arbitration with respect to property insurance policies
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-08
Author: Mark Wright (R)
Co-sponsors: Dewith Carrier (R) Phillip DeVillier (R) Gabe Firment (R) Brian Glorioso (R) Mike Johnson (R) Michael Melerine (R)
...and 1 more.
Proposes change to property insurance policies in Louisiana, specifically regarding mandatory binding arbitration.
Key Provisions:
1. Mandatory Binding Arbitration Conditions:
o Insurers can include mandatory binding arbitration clauses only if:
- The arbitration clause is in a separate endorsement attached to the policy.
- The policy includes an actuarially sound credit or premium discount for this endorsement.
- The policyholder signs a form, prescribed by the commissioner, acknowledging the rights forfeited, including the right to a jury trial.
2. Arbitration Requirements:
o Arbitration must occur within the judicial district where the insured property is located.
o The arbitrator must be a licensed Louisiana attorney meeting specific qualifications set by the commissioner.
o The arbitrator has the authority to award penalties, attorney fees, and other damages as permitted by law.
This bill aims to regulate the inclusion of arbitration clauses in property insurance policies, ensuring policyholders are fully informed and compensated for agreeing to such provisions.
HB383: Postpones the termination of a tax credit for C-corporations for local inventory taxes paid but reduces the amount of the credit for those taxpayers (EG1 -$130,000,000 SD RV See Note)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-04
Author: Ken Brass (D)
Co-sponsors: Franklin Foil (R)
HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] change the phase-in schedule and percentages for claiming the tax credit for local inventory taxes. Specifically, they shorten the overall transition timeline and establish new phase-in dates: the 50% credit rate now applies for taxable periods from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, and the 75% rate applies from July 1, 2027, through June 30, 2028. Additionally, the amendments change the full effective date for claiming the full credit from July 1, 2036, to July 1, 2028, significantly accelerating the implementation schedule.
ORIGINAL BILL:
Proposes extending the tax credit for C-corporations on local inventory taxes paid until June 30, 2036. The credit amount would decrease by 20% every two years starting July 1, 2028, leading to its elimination in 2036. The bill would be effective January 1, 2026, and apply to taxable periods beginning on or after that date.
HB513: Enacts the Louisiana Consumer Alternative Installment Loan Act (RE INCREASE SG EX See Note)
Last Action: Reconsidered. Read by title; returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-03
Author: Neil Riser (R)
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.
HB523: Provides for the payment of vendor's compensation for the timely collection and remittance of state and local sales taxes (EG1 DECREASE LF RV See Note)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-29
Author: Troy Romero (R)
All HOUSE committee amendments technical but one which adjusted the rate "one and five hundredths percent" to "eighty-four hundredths of one percent" of the amount of tax due in remittance of the tax levied by local ordinance.
Authorizes municipalities to compensate dealers for collecting and remitting local sales taxes by allowing a vendor’s compensation deduction at a rate set by local ordinance.
Key Provisions:
- Dealers may deduct vendor’s compensation when submitting sales tax returns, if payment is timely and not delinquent.
- Credits for taxes already paid to wholesalers cannot be included in the vendor’s compensation calculation.
- The uniform electronic return system must allow for non-uniform vendor’s compensation rates across jurisdictions.
- The Sales and Use Tax Commission for Remote Sellers must apply each jurisdiction’s vendor compensation rate if the return is filed and taxes are paid on time.
- Monthly distributions to local taxing authorities will be reduced accordingly to reflect vendor compensation deductions.
Impact:
Provides flexibility for local governments to incentivize timely tax remittance by dealers, while maintaining local control over compensation rates.
HB542: Provides for the allowable amount of promotional play offered by certain gaming operators and for deductions regarding promotional play (EG1 -$974,000 GF RV See Note)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-09
Author: Steven Jackson (D)
HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] update the definition of "net slot machine proceeds" to limit how much promotional play wagers can be deducted. Starting in 2026, eligible facilities may deduct up to $5 million or a percentage of taxable revenue, whichever is greater. The percentage cap increases over time: 4% in 2026, 7% in 2027, and 10% in 2028 and beyond.
Allows gaming operators to deduct a greater amount of promotional play from net gaming proceeds and gross revenue over time.
Key Provisions:
- Retains $5M minimum annual deduction for promotional play wagers.
- Adds a percentage cap deduction based on taxable revenue:
• 4% in 2026
• 7% in 2027
• 10% in 2028 and beyond
- Applies to definitions of both "net gaming proceeds" and "gross revenue."
HB557: Provides relative to adjudicated tax-delinquent property and the tax lien certificate process (RE NO IMPACT LF RV See Note)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-02
Author: Jacob Braud (R)
Implications:
Allows political subdivisions (special districts) to convert adjudicated tax-delinquent properties into tax sale certificate properties, reducing oversight by elected representatives—usurping powers that are core functions of the state or parish governments. Many of these special districts are allowed to raise taxes on business without a vote of the people and this would allow those unelected bodies to file tax lien certificates.
HOUSE committee amendment [LINK] technical
HOUSE floor amendments [LINK] amend statute references and effective date.
Key Provisions:
- Authorizes political subdivisions to adopt ordinances converting adjudicated property into tax lien certificate property.
- Requires filing of a tax lien certificate with the parish recorder of mortgages.
- Allows the period of adjudication to count toward the three-year holding period required for tax sale certificates.
- Permits sale of converted property after three years from adjudication recordation if notice requirements are met.
- Amends procedure for enforcing tax lien certificates by permitting court action after the later of three years or 180 days following notice.
- Supersedes conflicting provisions of Act 774 of 2024.
- Applies to taxable periods beginning on or after January 1, 2026.
- Effective January 1, 2026.
HB561: Provides policy provisions and exceptions relative to surplus lines insurance
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-02
Author: Gabe Firment (R)
HOUSE floor amendments technical
HOUSE committee amendments technical
Implications:
The bill makes changes to rules for surplus lines insurance, which is coverage provided by insurers not licensed in a state but allowed to sell insurance there for unique, high-risk, or hard-to-price cases that regular insurers won’t cover. Here’s what it does in simple terms:
- Surplus lines insurers can include arbitration agreements in their policies without following standard public contract rules.
- Policies must show a required notice in at least 14-point font (up from 10-point).
- Surplus lines insurers don’t need Department of Insurance approval for their rates or policy forms.
- They can add enforceable arbitration clauses to their policies.
- The new notice format applies to policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2026.
- Rules about arbitration start as soon as the governor signs the bill.
HB590: Provides relative to foreign funding for elections and election campaigns (RE1 SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-02
Author: Annie Spell (R)
Co-sponsors: Mike Bayham (R) Beau Beaullieu (R) Beth Billings (R) Rhonda Butler (R) Gabe Firment (R) Dodie Horton (R) Mike Johnson (R) Charles Owen (R)
...and 3 more.
HOUSE committee amendments are technical except Amendments 4&5 [LINK] which clarify that the initial contributions from foreign sources must be returned and defines the process required to return.
Prohibits the use of foreign or nongovernmental funds in election administration and advocacy.
In 2023, Louisiana voters approved a constitutional amendment that prohibits the use of funds, goods, or services from foreign governments or nongovernmental sources for conducting elections.
HB 590 by Rep. Spell builds on that amendment by adding enforcement provisions to state law. It establishes specific criminal penalties—fines up to twice the value of the donation, imprisonment up to five years, or both—for violations. The bill also defines key terms and expands the prohibition to include advocacy for or against ballot measures, candidates, or political parties.
Key Provisions:
- Bans use of donations from foreign governments or nongovernmental sources to conduct elections unless otherwise allowed by law.
- Prohibits foreign governments, foreign entities, or noncitizens from funding advocacy for or against ballot questions, candidates, or political parties.
- Violations are punishable by up to twice the donation amount in fines, up to 5 years imprisonment (with or without hard labor), or both.
- Defines "foreign entity" and "directly or indirectly" to clarify scope.
HB591: Provides for an alternative to minimum bids when selling adjudicated property and requires costs associated with the termination of a lien certificate to apply to adjudicated property (RE NO IMPACT LF RV See Note)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-05-28
Author: Roger Wilder (R)
HOUSE floor amendments technical except Amendments 2 & 3 [LINK] which amend statute references.
Allows political subdivisions to sell adjudicated property to the highest bidder without requiring a minimum bid or appraisal and extends cost recovery provisions for terminating tax lien certificates to include adjudicated property.
Key Provisions:
- Authorizes local governments to sell adjudicated property at public sale without setting a minimum bid or requiring an appraisal, as an alternative to current law.
- Requires individuals terminating a tax lien certificate on adjudicated property to pay the termination price plus all actual costs incurred by the political subdivision (e.g., notice, publication, certified mail).
- Supersedes provisions of Acts 2024, No. 774 concerning R.S. 47:2202(A)(1) and 2247(A).
- Applies to all taxable periods beginning on or after January 1, 2026.
- Effective January 1, 2026.
HB594: Establishes a flat rate of insurance premium tax and provides relative to certain insurance premium tax credits and exemptions (RR SEE FISC NOTE GF RV)
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-04
Author: Chance Henry (R)
Co-sponsors: Beryl Amedee (R) Beth Billings (R) Chad Boyer (R) Rhonda Butler (R) Jessica Domangue (R) Gabe Firment (R) Dodie Horton (R) Jacob Landry (R) Rodney Schamerhorn (R) Annie Spell (R) Roger Wilder (R) John Wyble (R)
...and 7 more.
HOUSE floor amendments [LINK] delay the start of premium tax reductions from 2026 to 2029 and phase them in gradually through 2032 with increasing percentage reductions each year. They cap the tax reduction for 2026–2028 so that no business can claim more than it received in 2024. The amendments also redefine what counts as a "qualifying Louisiana investment," including Louisiana-based bonds, property, loans, stocks, and certain in-state bank deposits. For HMOs to count these investments, they must be domiciled and operating in Louisiana, maintain their corporate office in the state, and keep at least 70% of their employees and core functions in Louisiana. The amendments also revise wording related to how premium taxes apply to surplus lines policies.
HOUSE approps committee amendments [LINK] introduce a gradual reduction mechanism for the insurance premium tax rate beginning July 1, 2027, contingent on exceeding specific revenue thresholds. They also adjust the criteria and calculation method for qualifying Louisiana investments, implementing a phased schedule that gradually increases the payable tax percentages over multiple years. Additionally, the amendments include new reporting requirements and clarify eligibility standards for tax reductions. Starting January 1, 2034, the amendments eliminate these investment-based tax reductions entirely.
HOUSE W&M committee Amendments [LINK] keeps the insurance premium tax credit, tightens rules so only insurers with strong Louisiana presence qualify, defines eligible in-state investments, and sets up automatic tax rate cuts starting in 2027 if collections rise.
Establishes a flat 1.6% insurance premium tax rate and repeals multiple insurance tax credits and exemptions, including the Louisiana Capital Companies Tax Credit Program. Applies to taxable periods beginning January 1, 2026.
Key Provisions:
- Replaces the current tiered insurance premium tax structure with a flat 1.6% tax on gross annual premiums for all applicable insurance types.
- Repeals several tax credits and exemptions, including:
- The insurance premium investment tax credit (R.S. 22:832)
- The credit for retaliatory taxes paid by certain domestic insurers (R.S. 22:836(B))
- The Louisiana Capital Companies Tax Credit Program (R.S. 51:1921–1935)
- Requires insurers to separately state premium and tax amounts on policy declarations.
- Retains local tax exemptions tied to "qualifying Louisiana investments" and standardizes the investment definition across relevant statutes.
- Effective January 1, 2026.
HB603: Amends the appointing process for certain occupational licensing boards, committees, and authorities
Last Action: Read by title and returned to the Calendar, subject to call.
Date: 2025-06-08
Author: Dixon McMakin (R)
HOUSE committee amendments technical
Removes the requirement that the governor must appoint members to certain occupational licensing boards from lists submitted by specified professional organizations. Instead, allows the governor to consider those lists but not be bound by them.
Key Provisions:
- Amends statutes governing 32 occupational licensing boards, committees, and authorities.
- Changes appointment language from “shall appoint from a list” to “may consider a list” submitted by trade associations, medical societies, or other professional groups.
- Affects boards for accountants, engineers, nurses, medical examiners, contractors, dentists, and others.
- Maintains that nominees must meet qualification requirements.
SB89: Requires the board of commissioners of the Port of New Orleans to be confirmed by the Senate. (2/3-CA6s43(3))(8/1/25)
Last Action: Reconsidered.
Date: 2025-06-09
Author: Joseph Bouie (D)
Co-sponsors: Regina Barrow (D) Gary Carter (D) Stewart Cathey (R) Royce Duplessis (D) Rick Edmonds (R) Jimmy Harris (D)
...and 1 more.
Proposes that appointments to the Board of Commissioners of the Port of New Orleans, made by the governor, be subject to Senate confirmation. Currently, such appointments do not require Senate approval. The bill maintains existing procedures for the removal of board members and specifies that these changes will apply to appointments made on or after August 1, 2025, which is also the bill's effective date.
SB111: Provides for fair claims processing. (8/1/25)
Last Action: Reconsidered.
Date: 2025-06-11
Author: Alan Seabaugh (R)
SENATE floor amendment [LINK] clarifies that an insurer is not acting in bad faith for failing to settle if no offer was made by the third-party claimant and the insurer had at least 30 days to respond. It also removes a provision from the bill to tighten its focus.
SENATE committee amendment [LINK] corrects a citation reference and clarifies that the bill’s provisions apply specifically to claims involving personal or bodily injury.
Amends Louisiana's insurance claims regulations to promote fair claims processing.
The bill proposes the following key changes:
- Clarifies misrepresentation by expanding the definition of breach of the insurer's duty of good faith to include misrepresentation of relevant policy provisions, as well as pertinent facts or insurance coverages.
- Specifies conditions under which a cause of action against an insurer does not exist, including:
- When there is a good faith dispute regarding liability or medical causation.
- When no third-party claimant has made an offer within policy limits.
- When the insurer has not had sufficient opportunity to conduct adequate discovery.
- When the insurer has not breached pertinent policy provisions.
- Provides protection for insurer representatives by stating explicitly that the bill does not create a separate cause of action against insurer representatives apart from the insurer itself.
The proposed law is scheduled to become effective on August 1, 2025.
SB16: Provides relative to health stop-loss insurance. (8/1/25) (EN NO IMPACT See Note)
Last Action: Effective date 8/1/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Patrick McMath (R)
SENATE floor amendment set 1692 [LINK] set new rules for health stop-loss insurance policies sold to small businesses starting January 1, 2026. Policies must have clear, guaranteed pricing for at least 12 months, must align closely with the small business’s existing health coverage, and must cover claims made during the policy period even after the policy ends. They also raise the minimum limits (attachment points) for claims to $50,000. Insurers must clearly disclose risks and coverage limitations, and employers must sign this disclosure before buying. The Louisiana insurance commissioner will develop a standard disclosure form by November 1, 2025.
Two sets of SENATE floor amendments technical
SENATE committee amendments [LINK] require that starting August 1, 2025, small employer health plans follow new rules. These plans cannot raise deductibles based on specific conditions, and premium increases are limited to the medical inflation rate plus 15% unless actuarially justified. The plans must be issued by licensed insurers that comply with both state and federal regulations. These requirements do not apply to plans already in effect before that date.
Proposes the enactment of R.S. 22:883(H) to regulate health stop-loss insurance in connection with employee benefit plans. The bill seeks to limit the issuance of such insurance to "large employers" as defined in existing law, aiming to refine the scope of stop-loss coverage within the state's insurance framework.
Key Provisions
The core of SB 16 lies in the addition of subsection (H) to R.S. 22:883, which governs stop-loss insurance coverage. The proposed text states: "Health stop-loss insurance issued in connection with an employee benefit plan shall only be issued in this state to a large employer as defined in R.S. 22:1061." This restriction ties the issuance of health stop-loss insurance—a type of coverage that protects self-insured employers from catastrophic or excessive claims—to a specific employer size category.
Under existing law (R.S. 22:1061), a "large employer" is defined as an employer who employed an average of at least 51 employees on business days during the preceding calendar year and who employs at least two employees on the first day of the plan year.
Stop-loss insurance is a critical tool for employers with self-funded health plans, reimbursing them for claims that exceed a predetermined threshold. By limiting its issuance to large employers, SB 16 appears to address concerns about financial risk or market stability. Smaller employers, often with fewer than 51 employees, may lack the resources or scale to manage the volatility of self-insurance effectively, even with stop-loss coverage. Restricting this insurance to larger entities could reduce the likelihood of underfunded plans collapsing under unexpected claims, protecting both employees and insurers.
The bill does not specify why this restriction is necessary, leaving room for speculation about its impetus—whether driven by insurer lobbying, actuarial data showing higher risks among smaller employers, or policy goals to streamline the market. Additionally, it does not address transitional measures for smaller employers currently relying on stop-loss insurance, which could create implementation challenges if the bill passes.
SB26: Provides relative to diabetes information. (8/1/25) (EN NO IMPACT See Note)
Last Action: Effective date 8/1/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Gerald Boudreaux (D)
Co-sponsors: Regina Barrow (D) Adam Bass (R) Joseph Bouie (D) Gary Carter (D) Stewart Cathey (R) Patrick Connick (R) Royce Duplessis (D) Rick Edmonds (R) Jimmy Harris (D) Cameron Henry (R) Katrina Jackson-Andrews (D) Samuel Jenkins (D) W. Jay Luneau (D) Patrick McMath (R) Gregory Miller (R) Beth Mizell (R) Robert Owen (R) Thomas Pressly (R) Edward Price (D) Mike Reese (R) Larry Selders (D) Kirk Talbot (R) William Wheat (R) Stephanie Berault (R) Tehmi Chassion (D) Kellee Dickerson (R) Peter Egan (R) Adrian Fisher (D) Jason Hughes (D) Alonzo Knox (D) Wayne McMahen (R) Dustin Miller (D)
...and 27 more.
SB36: Provides for carbon sequestration. (8/1/25) (EN NO IMPACT See Note)
Last Action: Effective date 6/20/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Bob Hensgens (R)
SENATE committee amendment [LINK] enacts R.S. 30:1105(D), requiring the commissioner to give "substantial" consideration to local government comments when deciding on actions that involve a public comment period or hearing under this chapter. Provides for public hearings.
In summary, the amendment shifts the bill's focus to ensure local government input is meaningfully considered in public hearings related to conservation matters.
Proposes amendments to existing laws governing carbon sequestration in the state. The key provisions of the bill include:
- Enhanced authority for the commissioner of conservation: The bill empowers the commissioner to enforce the plugging of abandoned wells, close associated surface facilities, remove equipment and structures, dispose of trash, and mandate general site cleanup. This aims to ensure that sites used for carbon sequestration are properly maintained and environmental hazards are mitigated.
- Emergency preparedness: Operators engaged in carbon storage activities would be required to submit an emergency contact number. This measure is designed to facilitate rapid response in case of emergencies, thereby enhancing safety protocols within carbon sequestration operations.
- Unitization for geologic storage: The bill authorizes the commissioner to approve unit operations for geologic storage. This includes the ability to unitize, pool, and consolidate all separately owned tracts and property interests within a designated storage unit. Additionally, the commissioner may incorporate necessary areal buffers and subsurface monitoring zones to promote efficient development and prevent waste of geologic storage resources.
Seeks to strengthen regulatory oversight.
SB42: Provides relative to perinatal behavioral health treatment. (8/1/25) (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Last Action: Effective date 8/1/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Larry Selders (D)
Co-sponsors: Regina Barrow (D) Royce Duplessis (D) Franklin Foil (R) Kirk Talbot (R) William Wheat (R) Mike Bayham (R) Stephanie Berault (R) Beth Billings (R) Josh Carlson (R) Dewith Carrier (R) Wilford Carter (D) Tehmi Chassion (D) Paula Davis (R) Daryl Deshotel (R) Phillip DeVillier (R) Jessica Domangue (R) Aimee Freeman (D) Barbara Freiberg (R) Troy Hebert (R) Stephanie Hilferty (R) Jason Hughes (D) Mike Johnson (R) Travis Johnson (D) Alonzo Knox (D) Mandie Landry (D) Ed Larvadain (D) Denise Marcelle (D) Dixon McMakin (R) Shaun Mena (D) Dustin Miller (D) Pat Moore (D) Candace Newell (D) Tammy Phelps (D) Annie Spell (R) Joseph Stagni (R) Sylvia Taylor (D) Joy Walters (D) Matthew Willard (D) John Wyble (R)
...and 34 more.
Another MEDICAID expansion
SENATE finance committee amendments [LINK] add language clarifying that the provisions of the bill will only take effect if funds are specifically appropriated by the legislature for that purpose.
SENATE Insurance committee amendments technical
INCREASES insurance premium costs see premium increases toward the end of the fiscal notes [LINK]
Requires commercial insurance and Medicaid to cover voluntary inpatient treatment for perinatal psychiatric diagnoses, including conditions during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum or after a pregnancy loss.
Key Provisions:
- Mandates coverage for inpatient admissions, overnight stays, medications, infusions, prescriptions, and counseling.
- Applies to all health benefit plans and Medicaid managed care organizations that offer mental health benefits.
- Treatment decisions must be made solely by the attending physician in consultation with the patient.
- Insurers and Medicaid cannot deny medically necessary voluntary inpatient treatment.
- Defines perinatal psychiatric diagnosis as any psychiatric disorder requiring inpatient treatment during pregnancy through one year postpartum, including post-loss.
- Effective August 1, 2025.
SB55: Provides relative to the assessment, payment, and allocation of ad valorem taxes. (1/1/26) (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF RV)
Last Action: Effective date 1/1/2026.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Gregory Miller (R)
SENATE floor offered technical amendments and an additional amendment [LINK] requiring a person seeking to terminate a tax sale certificate to pay the full termination price within 30 days of the court order.
SENATE committee amendments [LINK] change the implementation date to 2026, confirm that failure to provide notice does not invalidate a tax lien auction, and clarify procedures for canceling or assigning tax sale certificates, replace "parties” with “persons,” require written requests for certain actions, and ensure consistent terminology like “tax lien auction."
Proposes significant revisions to Louisiana's ad valorem tax procedures, particularly concerning the management of delinquent tax obligations and tax lien auctions.
Key Highlights:
- Tax Lien Certificates: The bill introduces the concept of "tax lien certificates," replacing previous mechanisms like tax sales and adjudications. These certificates represent liens for unpaid taxes on immovable property and can be sold at public auctions to recover delinquent amounts.
- Interest and Penalties: Delinquent taxes will accrue interest at a rate of 1% per month on a non-compounding basis. Additionally, a 5% penalty is assessed if the tax lien is offered for sale at a tax lien auction.
- Notification Procedures: The bill outlines specific procedures for notifying taxpayers of delinquent taxes, including sending written notices and publishing details about upcoming tax lien auctions.
- Rights of Property Owners: Property owners retain the right to extinguish a tax lien by paying the total amount due, including taxes, interest, penalties, and associated costs, before the enforcement of the lien through judicial sale.
- Priority of Liens: Tax liens established under this bill will have priority over most other encumbrances on the property, ensuring that tax obligations are settled before other claims.
These proposed changes aim to streamline the process of handling delinquent property taxes in Louisiana, providing clear guidelines for property owners and tax authorities.
SB73: Provides for sequestration of carbon dioxide. (8/1/25)
Last Action: Effective date 8/1/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Mike Reese (R)
Co-sponsors: Beryl Amedee (R) Rhonda Butler (R) Dodie Horton (R) Danny McCormick (R) Charles Owen (R) Rodney Schamerhorn (R)
...and 1 more.
Proposes an amendment to R.S. 30:1105(C) concerning carbon dioxide sequestration. The current law allows any interested person to request a hearing with the commissioner by submitting a written request and paying a fee. Upon receiving such a request, the commissioner is required to promptly call a hearing and take appropriate action within 30 days of its conclusion. The bill's primary objective is to ensure that the commissioner of conservation gives substantial consideration to comments from local governments when deciding on matters within their jurisdiction. This amendment emphasizes the importance of local government input in the decision-making process related to carbon sequestration projects. The bill is set to become effective on August 1, 2025.
SB113: Provides for term limits and qualifications for the DeSoto Parish Police Jury. (8/1/25)
Last Action: Notice House rejected the Conference Committee Report.
Date: 2025-06-12
Author: Alan Seabaugh (R)
SENATE floor amendment technical
Proposes term limits for the DeSoto Parish Police Jury. Specifically, individuals who have served more than two and a half terms within three consecutive terms would be ineligible for re-election in the subsequent term. This term limit would take effect only if approved by a majority vote in a dedicated election. The legislation is designed to apply prospectively, exempting current police jurors elected before its effective date of August 1, 2025.
SB128: Requires a written report when any law enforcement officer uses force on a member of the public. (8/1/25)
Last Action: Effective date 8/1/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Gary Carter (D)
Co-sponsors: Tehmi Chassion (D) Alonzo Knox (D)
SENATE floor amendments [LINK] clarify that the required use-of-force reporting applies specifically to physical force, explicitly including weapons. They also mandate that agency policies specify when reports must be made, who completes them, and penalties for noncompliance. Additionally, the bill is named "Shantel Arnold's Law."
SENATE committee amendment [LINK] clarifies that a use of force report is only required when the force used is likely to cause more than brief or minor pain. The report must be completed by the officer involved or their immediate supervisor.
Requires mandatory reporting whenever law enforcement officers use force on members of the public, regardless of arrest or injury outcomes.
Key Provisions:
- Requires the Council on Peace Officer Standards and Training to adopt a statewide mandatory reporting policy by January 1, 2026.
- Applies uniformly to all law enforcement agencies in Louisiana, allowing for the adoption of stricter local policies if desired.
- Mandates that all use-of-force reports are public records and subject to Louisiana Public Records Law.
- Effective date is August 1, 2025.
SB162: Provides relative to the collection and administration of sales and use taxes. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD EX See Note)
Last Action: Effective date 7/1/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Mike Reese (R)
SENATE floor amendment technical
Updates and clarifies Louisiana’s sales and use tax laws regarding remote sellers, marketplace facilitators, and digital products.
Key Provisions:
- Redefines “dealer” to include businesses with virtual or economic presence in Louisiana.
- Updates definitions to replace “products transferred electronically” with “digital products.”
- Requires remote sellers and marketplace facilitators exceeding $100,000 in Louisiana sales to register and collect state and local taxes.
- Authorizes vendor compensation deductions for timely tax filings, applied per jurisdiction.
- Removes rental car facilitators from the definition of “marketplace facilitator” (clarifies travel agencies or apps assisting in renting cars would not be responsible for collecting sales tax, reverts to rental car companies)
- Clarifies that once a marketplace facilitator crosses the $100,000 threshold, it must collect tax on all future sales.
- Effective upon governor’s signature.
SB165: Provides for the governance of the Juvenile Justice District and adds Lafourche Parish to the Juvenile Justice District. (8/1/25)
Last Action: Effective date 8/1/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Gregory Miller (R)
SENATE committee amendments technical
Adds Lafourche Parish to the River Parishes Juvenile Justice District and updates the board’s composition, domicile, and funding provisions.
Key Provisions:
- Expands the district’s jurisdiction to include Lafourche Parish (17th Judicial District).
- Revises the board of commissioners’ appointments to include representatives from Lafourche Parish.
- Moves the board’s domicile from St. James Parish to Lafourche Parish.
- Authorizes Lafourche courts to levy special court costs (up to $5 for adults, $5–$25 for juveniles) to support the district.
- Retains Senate confirmation of board appointments.
- Effective August 1, 2025.
SB191: Provides for the composition of the board of commissioners of the St. George Fire Protection District. (8/1/25)
Last Action: Effective date 8/1/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Rick Edmonds (R)
SENATE committee amendments [LINK] change the appointment process for the board of commissioners. The mayor now appoints three commissioners instead of five, the East Baton Rouge Metropolitan Council appoints one commissioner, and these four appointed commissioners jointly select the fifth member.
Establishes that the board of commissioners for the St. George Fire Protection District will consist of five members, all appointed by the St. George City Council.
Initial terms:
- Three commissioners serve one-year terms.
- Two commissioners serve two-year terms.
(Initial terms determined by lot.)
All subsequent terms are two years.
Effective August 1, 2025.
SB195: Provides for the French Quarter Management District. (8/1/25)
Last Action: Effective date 8/1/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Jimmy Harris (D)
Co-sponsors: Alonzo Knox (D)
SENATE committee amendments technical except amendment 4 [LINK] allows the French Quarter Management District to step in and secure emergency sanitation services if the City of New Orleans fails to provide them due to a lack of staff or an active contract. The district can independently contract for trash and cleaning services during such lapses, and the city is required to reimburse the district for those costs. The district's emergency contract remains in effect until the city resumes its own sanitation services.
BILL: SPECIAL DISTRICT TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS
Makes technical corrections to the French Quarter Management District statute by standardizing the names of appointing organizations on the board of commissioners (e.g., changing "Inc" to "Incorporated"). No changes to the structure or powers of the board.
Effective August 1, 2025.
SB220: Provides for the revision of statutes relating to local agencies. (8/1/25) (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)
Last Action: Effective date 8/1/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Stewart Cathey (R)
SENATE floor amendments technical
Revises multiple statutes related to local governments and agencies.
- Allows local governing authorities to sell or lease water or sewer utilities with poor performance (grade D or F or repeat permit violations) without a voter referendum if they are unable to restore compliance.
- Grants municipalities and parishes authority to create districts and commissions by ordinance.
- Expands local control and legal servitudes over drainage channels and canals, while clarifying that no taking occurs when drainage is lawfully regulated or prohibited.
- Allows local bodies to expropriate land for drainage and reinforces responsibility for draining public roads adjacent to levees.
- Repeals the Union Parish Railroad District.
Effective August 1, 2025.
SB233: Provides for changes to the School Readiness Tax Credit. (1/1/26) (EN DECREASE GF RV See Note)
Last Action: Effective date 1/1/2026.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Rick Edmonds (R)
Co-sponsors: Tony Bacala (R) Stephanie Berault (R) Kim Carver (R) Tehmi Chassion (D) Aimee Freeman (D) Barbara Freiberg (R) Alonzo Knox (D) Mandie Landry (D) Pat Moore (D) Annie Spell (R) John Wyble (R)
...and 6 more.
EXPANDS tax credits, up to $5 million. Aren't we trying to reduce/eliminate the income and corporate taxes and STOP tax credits?
Renames the School Readiness Tax Credit as the Workforce Child Care Tax Credit. Doubles allowable business expense caps to $100,000 (or $10,000 per child). Increases credit percentages based on facility quality (e.g., 5-star rises from 20% to 50%). Imposes a $5 million annual cap on total credits. Applies to tax periods starting January 1, 2026.
Expands the tax credit by doubling allowable business expense limits and increasing credit percentages (e.g., 5-star facilities from 20% to 50%). The estimated annual cost could rise from about $585,000 to $1 million or more. A Senate amendment caps total credits at $5 million per year to limit the fiscal impact.
HB77: Adds the Excellence award level for students who score 31 or higher on the ACT and allows award qualification based on the Classic Learning Test (EN +$3,012,092 SG EX See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: See Act.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Christopher Turner (R)
Co-sponsors: Daryl Adams (D) Lawrence Bagley (R) Stephanie Berault (R) Rhonda Butler (R) Dewith Carrier (R) Tehmi Chassion (D) Barbara Freiberg (R) Dodie Horton (R) John Illg (R) Timothy Kerner (R) Shane Mack (R) Laurie Schlegel (R) Francis Thompson (R) Regina Barrow (D) Gerald Boudreaux (D) Joseph Bouie (D) Franklin Foil (R) Cameron Henry (R) Katrina Jackson-Andrews (D) Samuel Jenkins (D) Blake Miguez (R) John Morris (R) Brach Myers (R) Edward Price (D) Mike Reese (R) Larry Selders (D)
...and 21 more.
HOUSE floor amendment set 3146 [LINK] broadens eligibility by allowing students who completed their undergraduate degree either in Louisiana or out of state to qualify for applying unused TOPS award funds toward medical or dental school in Louisiana. It removes the prior limitation that only out-of-state undergraduate graduates were eligible.
HOUSE floor amendment set 3138 [LINK] allows students who qualified for a TOPS award but earned their undergraduate degree out of state to use any unused award funds for in-state medical or dental school tuition. Eligible students must enroll in an approved Louisiana medical or dental program and sign a promissory note agreeing to repay the award with interest unless they enter a residency or practice full-time in Louisiana for three years after residency. The award is limited to the remaining unused semesters (up to eight) and capped at either the program's tuition or the highest undergraduate tuition at a Louisiana public university, whichever is less. The Board of Regents must establish rules for repayment, exemptions, and administration.
HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] narrow the bill's focus, preserving existing award amounts while expanding ways students can qualify for technical awards. Modifies the original bill by:
- Adjusting the bill's scope by removing provisions that revised the award amounts for certain scholarships under TOPS (Taylor Opportunity Program for Students).
- Adding new eligibility options for TOPS-Tech awards, allowing students who meet two out of three criteria (GPA, ACT score, or completing nine credit hours of early college/dual enrollment courses or equivalent) to qualify.
- Clarifying that students eligible for an Excellence Award will receive either the actual tuition charged by the public college or university or $12,000, whichever is less.
TOPS changes effective for 2025-2026 freshmen:
- Adds new "Excellence Award" for students with ACT 31+ and 3.50 GPA.
- Sets fixed award caps by school type (e.g., $12,000 max at public colleges).
- 2025-2026 public college students get the higher of old or new amount.
- Tuition now includes mandatory fees.
- National Guard students in the Excellence tier get added stipends.
- Keeps current GPA and course rules; Excellence tier must maintain 3.00 GPA.
HB138: Provides with respect to the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners
Last Action: Notice House Conference Committee members appointed.
Date: 2025-06-11
Author: Jason DeWitt (R)
Co-sponsors: Peter Egan (R)
Additional SENATE floor amendments technical;
SENATE floor amendments [LINK] restructure the medical board to include 9 physicians, 1 consumer, and 1 non-physician healthcare professional. The non-physician must meet residency and licensing requirements and can't vote on physician discipline or exam grading. Members appointed after Aug. 1, 2025, serve staggered terms—4 years for most, 2 years for the non-physician. No more than 3 consecutive terms. One physician must come from each congressional district. The board may hire a physician as executive director.
SENATE H&W committee amendments [LINK] expand the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners from 10 to 11 members by adding a non-physician healthcare professional regulated by the board. The first appointee in this new position must be a physician assistant. All members will now serve at the pleasure of the governor. Term lengths are set at four years for physician and consumer members, and two years for the non-physician member, with a maximum of three consecutive terms. Terms begin on July 1 of the year of appointment. The amendments also update the order and numbering of board appointments.
HOUSE floor amendments [LINK] include:
- Adds geographic requirements and mandates minority representation in several appointments.
- Expands board membership to include a physician assistant and a consumer member.
- Shifts oversight of the director of investigations to the executive director.
HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] restructure the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners, establishing a 10-member board appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate, representing specific medical and healthcare organizations, and including one consumer member. Membership must reflect geographic and minority representation. A non-physician healthcare professional is added, with the initial appointee being a physician assistant. Residency requirements for physician members increase from six months to five years, and members serve at the governor’s discretion under the oversight of the Louisiana Department of Health. The amendments also shift responsibility for hiring the director of investigations from the board to the executive director. Previous statutory causes for removal of board members are repealed. The Act is effective upon the governor's signature.
Proposes changes to the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners (LSBME). It increases board membership from 10 to 11, adding a representative from the Louisiana Academy of Physician Assistants. The bill allows the governor to remove and reappoint members at the start of a new term and limits members to two consecutive terms instead of three. It also shifts certain board powers from discretionary to mandatory, requiring the selection of officers and the adoption of rules and bylaws to ensure efficient board operations.
The Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners (LSBME) is responsible for regulating the practice of medicine and allied health professions in Louisiana. Its primary functions include:
- Licensing: Issuing and renewing licenses for physicians, physician assistants, and other healthcare professionals.
- Discipline: Investigating complaints and taking disciplinary action against licensees who violate medical regulations.
- Regulation & Oversight: Establishing and enforcing rules governing medical practice, ensuring compliance with state laws.
- Education & Compliance: Providing guidance and resources to medical professionals to maintain ethical and professional standards.
- Public Protection: Ensuring that healthcare practitioners meet competency standards to protect patient safety.
Modifies aspects of LSBME's structure, particularly its governance and rule-making authority.
HB293: Provides relative to the resignation from labor organization dues or fees for teachers and other school employees and public employees (REF SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)
Last Action: Notice House Conference Committee members appointed.
Date: 2025-06-11
Author: Michael Melerine (R)
SENATE floor amendments technical.
HOUSE floor amendment [LINK] allows the Louisiana Workforce Commission secretary to waive union-related requirements for mass transit employees if needed to keep an employer eligible for federal transit funding under 49 U.S.C. §5333(b).
HOUSE committee Amendments 2, 4 & 7 [LINK] require labor unions to cover administrative costs for members opting out.
Proposes changes to the procedures governing the withholding of labor organization dues or fees from the wages of teachers, school employees, and public employees in Louisiana.
Key Provisions of the Bill:
1. Immediate cessation of dues withholding: Employees can submit a written or electronic request to their employer to stop the withholding of labor organization dues or fees. Upon receiving such a request, the employer must promptly notify the relevant labor organization or union and cease the deductions.
2. Annual authorization requirement: Authorizations for salary deductions to pay labor organization dues or fees are limited to a one-year duration and must be renewed annually. Any increase in the total amount of dues or fees also necessitates a new authorization. Previous authorizations are deemed invalid under this bill.
3. Employer notification obligation: Employers, including state agencies and school boards, are required to inform employees annually, in writing or via email, of their right to discontinue membership in a labor organization and cease payment of dues or fees.
4. Standardized authorization form: The bill mandates the use of a specific authorization form, prescribed by the attorney general, which includes a statement emphasizing the voluntary nature of labor organization membership and the employee's right to revoke authorization at any time.
5. Exemptions: The provisions outlined in this bill do not apply to law enforcement officers and firefighters.
6. Applicability to collective bargaining agreements: The bill's provisions apply prospectively to new collective bargaining agreements or to existing agreements that are modified, extended, or affected by a new or modified memorandum of understanding.
This legislation aims to reinforce employees' rights regarding union participation and financial contributions, ensuring that such involvement remains a voluntary and consciously renewed choice.
HB365: Provides for an optional exemption of business inventory from ad valorem taxes and to authorize the reduction of the fair market value percentage of business inventory under certain circumstances (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: See Act.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Daryl Deshotel (R)
Co-sponsors: Troy Romero (R)
SENATE floor amendment set 2993 [LINK] narrows a tax exemption by replacing “farms” with “agricultural cooperatives” and clarify that it does not apply to agricultural inputs used in producing food and fiber. This limits the scope of eligible exemptions under the bill.
SENATE floor amendment set 2862 [LINK[ Parishes can fully exempt business inventory from property taxes by July 1, 2027, to receive a one-time state payment—up to $15 million for immediate exemptions, $10 million for phased. Partial exemptions or late actions get no payment. Parishes may also reduce inventory valuation with local approval, but changes are permanent and limited to once per assessment period. Lost revenue must be absorbed locally with no millage hikes.
SENATE committee amendments [LINK] clarify that business inventory includes items for sale, in production, or used in making goods. Parishes can exempt this inventory from property taxes, with optional state reimbursement if funds are appropriated. The program starts in 2026. Exemptions set after July 2, 2027, won’t qualify for state payments. Once a parish lowers inventory valuation, it can’t be raised or changed more than once per assessment period. The bill is updated to align with constitutional and statutory definitions.
Implications:
This bill allows parishes to offer a property tax exemption for business inventory, like goods for sale or in production—but only if the local sheriff, school board, and parish government all agree. They must make this decision by July 1, 2028, and once they do, it cannot be reversed.
If they approve the exemption, it can take effect all at once or gradually over up to five years.
Parishes that opt in by the deadline can get state payments:
- If they grant a full exemption right away, they’ll get the greater of either three times the 2025 inventory tax revenue or $1 million, capped at $15 million.
- If they phase in the exemption, they’ll get at least the 2025 revenue or $500,000, capped at $10 million.
Parishes that miss the July 1, 2028 deadline won’t get any of this money.
Once a property is exempt under this program, it won’t count in future tax value calculations, and the taxing districts can’t shift the lost revenue onto other taxpayers. They’ll have to absorb the difference themselves.
HB366: (Constitutional Amendment) Authorizes parishes to exempt business inventory from ad valorem taxes and authorizes parishes to reduce the percentage of fair market value applicable to business inventory (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: See Act.
Date: 2025-06-13
Author: Daryl Deshotel (R)
HOUSE floor amendment 1 set 2275 [LINK] Adds a new subcategory to the property tax assessment schedule: public service property, excluding land, limited to barge line and towing vessels, assessed at 15%.
Other HOUSE floor amendments technical
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT
Proposes a constitutional amendment affecting ad valorem taxation of business inventory in Louisiana.
Specifically, the bill seeks to authorize individual parishes to:
1. Exempt business inventory from ad valorem taxes: Parishes would have the option to fully exempt business inventory from local property taxes.
2. Adjust assessment percentages: Parishes could reduce the percentage of fair market value used to assess business inventory for taxation purposes.
To support parishes implementing the full exemption, the bill allows the state to provide a one-time payment to these parishes. This payment would be distributed to local taxing authorities within the parish, with the amount and distribution process defined by subsequent legislation.
Additionally, the bill prohibits the state legislature from mandating local taxing authorities to exempt business inventory from ad valorem taxes, ensuring decisions remain at the parish level.
If approved, the provisions of this amendment would take effect on January 1, 2027, and apply to tax years beginning on or after that date.
HB404: Provides relative to various tax administration functions of the Department of Revenue (EN DECREASE GF RV See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: See Act.
Date: 2025-07-01
Author: Matthew Willard (D)
HOUSE committee amendments technical
Implications:
This bill makes several changes to Louisiana’s tax administration laws.
Key aspects of the bill include:
1. Alcoholic Beverage Tax Administration:
The bill allows the Secretary of the Department of Revenue to prescribe the method by which out-of-state alcoholic beverage shippers submit their shipment notices, replacing the previous requirement for mailed notices.
2. Sales and Use Tax Overpayments:
Taxpayers holding Direct Payment Numbers (DP Numbers) would no longer be entitled to interest on refunds resulting from overpayment of sales and use taxes on exempt purchases.
3. Interest Rates on Delinquent Taxes:
Effective July 1, 2025, the interest rate on unpaid taxes would be adjusted to align with the judicial interest rate specified in R.S. 9:3500(B)(1).
4. Sales Transaction Sourcing Rules:
The bill introduces a definition for "drop shipment sale" and specifies that such sales are to be sourced to the location where the transfer of title or possession first occurs.
5. Tax Exemption Budget Reporting:
Revisions are proposed for the content and assessment criteria of the annual tax exemption budget, including the requirement for a comprehensive return on investment analysis for tax incentives exceeding one million dollars in revenue loss in the previous fiscal year.
6. Office of Debt Recovery Functions:
The bill extends the authority of the Office of Debt Recovery to withhold, offset, levy, garnish, or seize payments from progressive slot machine annuities and cash gaming winnings, contingent upon the availability of a single-point inquiry system for debt information.
HB466: Requires school systems to provide a salary increase for teachers and other school employees using savings attributable to the state's payment of certain unfunded accrued liability of the Teachers' Retirement System of Louisiana (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: See Act.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Josh Carlson (R)
Co-sponsors: Beryl Amedee (R) Tony Bacala (R) Mike Bayham (R) Stephanie Berault (R) Ken Brass (D) Kim Carver (R) Tehmi Chassion (D) Raymond Crews (R) Daryl Deshotel (R) Phillip DeVillier (R) Kellee Dickerson (R) Kathy Edmonston (R) Julie Emerson (R) Barbara Freiberg (R) Denise Marcelle (D) Michael Melerine (R) Pat Moore (D) Charles Owen (R) Laurie Schlegel (R) Joseph Stagni (R) Sylvia Taylor (D) Joy Walters (D) Gerald Boudreaux (D) Rick Edmonds (R) Michael Fesi (R) Jimmy Harris (D) Blake Miguez (R) Larry Selders (D) Jeremy Stine (R) Glen Womack (R)
...and 25 more.
NOTE these are part of the reduction of debt through payoff of retirement system debt. Requires locals to use funds for the education system pay raises.
SENATE committee amendments [LINK] also require permanent raises for all school staff, including those on leave, without reducing existing pay. Charter schools in the retirement system must comply. Schools must report raise implementation and use of extra funds. Technology is added as an allowed expense.
HOUSE floor amendment technical
HOUSE Education committee amendment technical
Requires public school systems to provide permanent salary increases to teachers and other school employees using savings from reduced retirement contributions.
Key Provisions:
- Mandates a minimum salary increase of $2,000 for certificated personnel and $1,000 for noncertificated personnel.
- Increases must be funded using savings from reduced employer contributions to the Teachers’ Retirement System of Louisiana (TRSL), due to the state paying off certain unfunded liabilities.
- If savings are insufficient, the Minimum Foundation Program (MFP) will cover the shortfall.
- If savings exceed the required amount, excess funds may only be used for:
- Hiring in critical shortage areas (e.g., SPED, math, science)
- Summer enrichment programs
- Early childhood education
- School security enhancements
- Applies to employees eligible for the FY 2023-2024 MFP proposed pay raise and who received stipends in FY 2024-2025.
- Becomes effective only if a related constitutional amendment is approved by voters.
Purpose: Redirects employer contribution savings from state-paid TRSL debt to increase compensation for public school employees.
HB473: (Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the application of state monies to the unfunded accrued liability of the Teachers' Retirement System of La. (EN DECREASE SD RV See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: See Act.
Date: 2025-06-16
Author: Julie Emerson (R)
Co-sponsors: Rick Edmonds (R)
HOUSE floor amendment technical
Implications: Reduces the state’s retirement debt by liquidating education-related trust funds and using those assets to pay down liabilities in the Teachers’ Retirement System of Louisiana, lowering future required contributions in part due to reductions in interest due to early payoff of balances resulting in reduction of payments to the fund including those required at the parish level.
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT
Eliminates three existing education-related funds and uses their assets toward the unfunded accrued liability (UAL) of the Teachers’ Retirement System of Louisiana.
Key Provisions:
1. Fund Eliminations:
- Repeals the Louisiana Education Quality Trust Fund (LEQTF), the Louisiana Quality Education Support Fund, and the Education Excellence Fund (EEF).
- These funds currently support some K-12 and higher education programs.
2. Transfer of Funds:
- By April 1, 2027, the state treasurer must transfer the liquidated fair market value of the three repealed funds to TRSL.
- TRSL must apply the funds to the oldest existing positive amortization bases first to reduce UAL.
3. Overcollections Fund Use:
- The Department of Education, BESE, and the Board of Regents will certify remaining balances from repealed funds.
- These amounts will be transferred to the Overcollections Fund and used without appropriation for approved instructional purposes such as early childhood education, remedial support, and academic intervention.
- Prohibited uses include building maintenance, capital projects, and salary increases.
4. Transition Measures:
- Balances needed for FY 2026-2027 appropriations will be held back.
- Unspent balances in the repealed funds will be transferred to the general fund on July 1, 2027.
- Starting in 2027, revenue previously dedicated to the repealed funds will go to the state general fund unless redirected by law.
5. TOPS and Health Excellence Funds:
- These funds remain but receive a larger share of investment earnings (increased from one-third to one-half).
- All other rules and limitations remain in effect.
6. Effective Date:
- January 1, 2027
7. Ballot Language:
- Voters will decide in the November 3, 2026, election whether to approve the repeal of the three education funds and redirect their assets to reduce the TRSL UAL.
HB518: Provides relative to rates, computation, and administration of severance tax on oil, gas, and other natural resources (EN NO IMPACT GF RV See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: 08/01/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Brett Geymann (R)
Reorganizes and clarifies Louisiana’s severance tax statute (R.S. 47:633) without changing tax rates or exemptions. It makes technical corrections and updates language for consistency.
Key Provisions:
- Retains existing tax rates on oil, gas, timber, and other resources
- Preserves exemptions for incapable, stripper, horizontal, deep, inactive, and orphan wells
- Updates administrative procedures and definitions
- Corrects cross-references and aligns law with current practice
Purpose:
To improve clarity and administration without fiscal impact.
HB535: Requires the Louisiana Legislative Auditor to evaluate state tax incentives (EN +$43,000 GF EX See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: 08/01/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Mandie Landry (D)
Co-sponsors: Beryl Amedee (R) Tony Bacala (R) Mike Bayham (R) Delisha Boyd (D) Peter Egan (R) Les Farnum (R) Adrian Fisher (D) Stephanie Hilferty (R) Ed Larvadain (D) Denise Marcelle (D) Danny McCormick (R) Charles Owen (R) Roger Wilder (R) John Wyble (R)
...and 9 more.
HOUSE W&M committee amendment [LINK]
- Requires (rather than provides for) the legislative auditor's involvement.
- Clarifies that the legislative auditor may recommend, rather than mandate, revoking a company's eligibility for tax incentives if conditions aren't met.
- Specifies that administering agencies must respond in writing to the auditor's evaluation, including proposed remedies if needed, and simultaneously transmit this response to both the auditor and the company.
HOUSE H&G committee amendment [LINK] require the legislative auditor to evaluate each state tax incentive at least every four years, including job creation, income impact, and cost-benefit analysis. Companies that fail to provide data or meet incentive terms lose eligibility. The auditor must notify the administering agency, which then informs the company within 90 days. The auditor may also recommend specific reforms based on findings.
Requires the Louisiana Legislative Auditor (LLA) to regularly evaluate state tax incentives and report findings to the Legislature. Grants the LLA enforcement authority, including the ability to recapture funds from companies that do not comply with data or performance requirements.
Key Provisions:
- Requires LLA to evaluate all state tax incentives, with discretion to exempt those with minimal fiscal impact.
- Permits contracting with third-party entities to assist with evaluations.
- Mandates cost-benefit analyses including impacts on job creation, personal income, and GDP.
- Requires assessments of fiscal protections, administrative efficiency, and recipient goal achievement.
- Authorizes LLA to compel participation and data submission from incentive recipients.
- Grants authority to recapture incentive funds for noncompliance or unmet obligations.
- Recovered funds may be used for evaluations, economic development, or general expenses.
- Requires biennial reports to the Legislature with recommendations to retain, reform, or repeal incentives.
HB559: Provides relative to human services districts and boards (EN NO IMPACT See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: 08/01/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Michael Echols (R)
Co-sponsors: Lawrence Bagley (R) Peter Egan (R) Gabe Firment (R) Adrian Fisher (D) Steven Jackson (D) Mike Johnson (R) Roger Wilder (R) Mark Wright (R)
...and 3 more.
HOUSE floor amendments [LINK] require human services district and authority boards to have their executive directors confirmed by the secretary and surgeon general. Boards must adopt consistent performance measures, optimize billing, integrate primary care, conduct annual patient surveys, and publicly report results. They must present annual progress reports at the state capitol. The Department of Health oversees policy development, implementation, and monitoring of board activities.
HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] require human services district and authority boards to submit yearly reports on their progress toward statewide health goals. Reports must include program summaries, performance data, challenges, and improvement plans. The Louisiana Department of Health will set reporting standards and submit a statewide summary to the legislature by February 1 each year.
Establishes centralized oversight of Louisiana’s human services districts through the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) and surgeon general, creates the Louisiana Population Health Coordinating Council (LPHCC), and mandates alignment with a new Statewide Population Health Strategy (SPHS).
Key Provisions:
- Grants LDH and the surgeon general strategic oversight of all human services districts and authorities.
- Requires all local boards to align policies with the SPHS and collaborate with executive directors hired by the surgeon general.
- Executive directors report directly to the surgeon general and serve as voting members of the LPHCC.
- Creates the 17-member LPHCC within LDH, chaired by the surgeon general, tasked with developing and coordinating the SPHS.
- Sets goals for the SPHS including reducing preventable hospital visits, improving maternal health, expanding behavioral health access, and addressing disparities.
- Mandates LDH to conduct annual reviews, consolidate duplicative contracts, and adopt data tools to monitor performance and reduce fraud.
- Requires submission of an annual report on fraud, waste, and duplication to legislative committees.
HB570: Provides relative to minors' use of applications (EN SEE FISC NOTE SG RV)
Last Action: Effective date: 07/01/2026.
Date: 2025-06-30
Author: Kim Carver (R)
Co-sponsors: Daryl Adams (D) Beryl Amedee (R) Tony Bacala (R) Dennis Bamburg (R) Mike Bayham (R) Beau Beaullieu (R) Stephanie Berault (R) Beth Billings (R) Delisha Boyd (D) Chad Boyer (R) Ken Brass (D) Jacob Braud (R) Marcus Bryant (D) Rhonda Butler (R) Wilford Carter (D) Tehmi Chassion (D) Emily Chenevert (R) Kimberly Coates (R) Vincent Cox (R) Daryl Deshotel (R) Jason DeWitt (R) Kellee Dickerson (R) Jessica Domangue (R) Kathy Edmonston (R) Peter Egan (R) Julie Emerson (R) Gabe Firment (R) Adrian Fisher (D) Bryan Fontenot (R) Barbara Freiberg (R) Brian Glorioso (R) Chance Henry (R) Steven Jackson (D) Mike Johnson (R) Vanessa Caston Lafleur (D) Shane Mack (R) Michael Melerine (R) Pat Moore (D) Charles Owen (R) Neil Riser (R) Troy Romero (R) Rodney Schamerhorn (R) Laurie Schlegel (R) Annie Spell (R) Lauren Ventrella (R) Debbie Villio (R) Roger Wilder (R) Jeff Wiley (R) John Wyble (R)
...and 44 more.
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.
HB578: Provides with respect to state and local sales and use taxes and exemptions to those taxes (EN DECREASE GF RV See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: 06/20/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Julie Emerson (R)
SENATE floor amendments REPEAL THE AUTOMATIC REDUCTION IN SALES TAX that was part of merging the Revenue Stablization Fund into the Budget Stabilization Fund. See PAGE 7 LINE 15 of the SENATE GREEN SHEET [LINK]
There are FIVE SENATE floor amendments and one SENATE committee amendments. JULIE will have to sort the rest out LINKED HERE .
HOUSE floor amendments technical
HOUSE committee amendments technical
Revises provisions related to state and local sales and use taxes, clarifying definitions, expanding exemptions, and modifying applicability of certain taxes.
Key Provisions:
- Clarifies definitions of “dealer,” “cost price,” “sales price,” “use,” and “retail sale” to explicitly include digital products and services.
- Revises scope of taxable services, restricting local taxation on cable, satellite, and related digital programming services to state-level only.
- Provides new and expanded exemptions from sales and use tax for:
- Repairs to property delivered out of state
- Lease of vehicles under warranty or provided at no charge
- Purchases by certain nonprofits, including those focused on sickle cell disease
- Sales to Habitat for Humanity for residential construction
- Certain radiation therapy equipment and software
- Sales at nonprofit-sponsored cultural events
- Admissions and parking for nonprofit and school-sponsored events, including public schools
- Codifies prohibition on taxes for nongaming incentives (e.g., complimentary hotel stays) offered by licensed gaming entities, unless paid in part with cash.
- Expands exemption on vehicles purchased for lease or rental to apply to all taxing authorities, not just the state.
- Increases dedication to tourism promotion from 0.3% to 3% of avails from a specific state sales tax levy.
- Allows for refunds of tax paid on newly exempt transactions occurring between Jan. 1, 2025, and the effective date of the Act, subject to specific procedures.
- Effective upon governor’s signature; applicable to tax periods starting Jan. 1, 2025.
HB579: Provides for the transfer, deposit, and use of monies among state funds (EN -$9,000,000 GF RV See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: See Act.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Julie Emerson (R)
Co-sponsors: Tehmi Chassion (D) Rick Edmonds (R)
HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] expand the state treasurer’s investment authority for multiple trust funds (including the Millennium Trust, UCP Permanent Trust, Medicaid Trust for the Elderly, and wildlife refuge funds) to allow use of repurchase agreements and securities lending to generate passive income. They authorize technical changes by the Louisiana State Law Institute and adjust statutory citations. The amendments also broaden fund investment options by aligning them with those permitted for the Millennium Trust.
Revises laws governing several Louisiana state funds, including the Louisiana Education Quality Trust Fund (LEQTF), the Millennium Trust, and the Unclaimed Property Permanent Trust Fund. It restructures the allocation, investment, and use of these funds and repeals the Education Excellence Fund by 2027, contingent on voter approval of a constitutional amendment (HB473 UAL payoff and permanent teacher pay raises).
Key Provisions:
- Repeals most statutory provisions governing the LEQTF and Louisiana Quality Education Support Fund but retains current appropriation mechanisms until July 1, 2027.
- Eliminates the Education Excellence Fund and reallocates its earnings to the Health Excellence Fund and TOPS Fund (each receiving 50% of earnings from Millennium Trust investments).
- Revises the investment options for the Millennium Trust and Unclaimed Property Permanent Trust Fund, allowing broader investment authority and aligning both with LEQTF investment standards.
- Removes prior-year appropriation limitations for the Millennium Trust subfunds and repeals the requirement for reporting Education Excellence Fund performance to the superintendent of education.
- Changes are contingent upon the passage of a constitutional amendment at a statewide election.
HB649: Provides relative to the Recreation and Park Commission for the parish of East Baton Rouge and the Capital Area Transit System
Last Action: Effective date: 06/20/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Lauren Ventrella (R)
Allows the City of Central to continue in its autonomy as an independent city controlling its own parks and recreation, mandating cooperation from the BREC.
Creates the Central Recreation District in East Baton Rouge Parish, separating the city of Central from the jurisdiction of the parish-wide Recreation and Park Commission (BREC).
Key Provisions:
- Establishes a new Central Recreation District with boundaries matching the city of Central.
- Transfers control of parks, buildings, assets, and programs within Central from BREC to the new district effective July 1, 2025.
- Removes Central from BREC’s taxing authority, except where taxes are pledged to bonded debt.
- Authorizes the new district to levy up to 12 mills in ad valorem taxes (2025–2030) and additional taxes starting in 2031, subject to voter approval.
- Sets governance by the Central mayor, city council, and one state House appointee.
- Mandates full asset transfer cooperation from BREC and prohibits obstruction, asset removal, or unrelated debt assignments.
HB665: Provides relative to the Angel Investor Tax Credit Program (EN -$1,000,000 GF RV See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: See Act.
Date: 2025-07-01
Author: Matthew Willard (D)
Co-sponsors: Paula Davis (R) Franklin Foil (R)
Another tax credit extension that should sunset, this one is the Angel Investor Tax Credit Program.
SENATE floor amendments [LINK] remove several prior committee amendments linked below, revise language for clarity, and simplify the credit structure by splitting it over two years. They apply the bill to tax periods starting January 1, 2025, and make it effective upon the governor’s signature or default enactment.
SENATE committee amendments [LINK] add reporting requirements, limit eligibility to targeted high-growth sectors, exclude certain industries, and allow enhanced credits for investments in small parishes or opportunity zones. Credits can be claimed 24 months after certification and must be reserved after June 30, 2026. One provision is repealed, and sections are renumbered.
Key Provisions:
- Extends the program through December 31, 2026.
- Prohibits new credits after that date
- Removes the rule requiring the tax credit to be split over two years.
- Retains $3.6 million annual caps for both the 25% and 35% credit tiers.
- Ends carry-forward of unused credit amounts after January 1, 2026, but allows use of any pre-2026 accumulated credits.
- Extends the application deadline from June 30, 2025, to whenever unused pre-2026 credits are exhausted.
- Aligns tax liability applicability with the scheduled 2026 phaseout of Louisiana’s corporate franchise tax.
HB686: Provides for the disclosure of foreign adversaries (EN +$100,000 GF EX See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: 12/01/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Charles Owen (R)
Co-sponsors: Beryl Amedee (R) Mike Bayham (R) Beth Billings (R) Kellee Dickerson (R) Kathy Edmonston (R) Gabe Firment (R) Dodie Horton (R) Rodney Schamerhorn (R) Annie Spell (R) Francis Thompson (R) Lauren Ventrella (R) Roger Wilder (R)
...and 7 more.
SENATE floor amendment sets all technical
SENATE committee amendments [LINK] require lobbyists for foreign corporations from countries listed as U.S. adversaries to file disclosures with the Louisiana Board of Ethics. Disclosures must include the corporation’s name, location, business type, and lobbying issues. Entities on the federal SAM.gov registry are exempt. The board must post disclosures online, flag noncompliance, and share data with other states. Updates must be filed within 10 days of any changes.
HOUSE floor amendments [LINK] add an exception stating that entities subject to a qualified divestiture under the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act are not considered foreign adversaries. They update required information to include mailing addresses and the names and addresses of individuals who own at least 5% of the foreign entity. The amendments require the Board of Ethics to publicly post a list of those who fail to file disclosures. They also require current lobbyists for foreign adversaries to file a disclosure within 30 days of the law taking effect.
Requires lobbyists representing foreign adversaries to disclose detailed information to the Louisiana Board of Ethics. Mandates public access to these disclosures through a searchable online database.
KEY PROVISIONS:
- Defines "foreign adversary" as individuals, corporations, or governments identified by the U.S. Treasury Department as adversaries.
- Requires lobbyists working for foreign adversaries to disclose:
- Personal identification and addresses.
- Identity, ownership details, and business activities of the foreign adversary.
- Specific lobbying matters being represented.
- Establishes penalties up to $50,000 per violation for failure to comply.
- Directs the Ethics Board to create a publicly accessible web database for these disclosures.
- Authorizes data-sharing between Louisiana and other states to enhance compliance.
Effective December 1, 2025.
HB690: Directs the Surgeon General to draft and promulgate rules for the administration of medical activities under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for all members of the healthcare community in Louisiana
Last Action: Effective date: 06/20/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Charles Owen (R)
Co-sponsors: Beryl Amedee (R) Stephanie Berault (R) Beth Billings (R) Rhonda Butler (R) Raymond Crews (R) Peter Egan (R) Gabe Firment (R) Dodie Horton (R) Rodney Schamerhorn (R) Annie Spell (R) Roger Wilder (R)
...and 6 more.
SENATE floor amendment set 3123 [LINK] correct agency names and add the Louisiana State Board of Nursing to the list of groups the surgeon general must coordinate with when developing protocols. They also renumber the list accordingly.
SENATE floor amendment set 3063 [LINK] require the surgeon general to coordinate with specific agencies and organizations when developing protocols. These include the attorney general’s office, the Law Institute, and several medical associations. The surgeon general may also include other groups as needed.
SENATE floor amendment set 2961 [LINK] replaces all references to "rules" with "protocols." They remove the requirement for the protocols to be adopted under the Administrative Procedure Act and instead require them to be submitted to the House and Senate health and welfare committees for review and approval.
SENATE committee amendments technical
HOUSE floor amendments technical
Directs the surgeon general to adopt rules governing the administration of medical activities authorized by federal Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Louisiana's healthcare community. These rules must cover safe administration, informed consent, adverse event monitoring, provider training, equitable access (particularly for rural and underserved populations), transparency, and compliance measures. The rules will apply consistently during declared health emergencies and routine healthcare operations, supplementing but not superseding federal EUA guidelines. The surgeon general must begin the rulemaking process within six months of enactment. Effective upon signature by the governor or lapse of time for gubernatorial action.
HCR69: Creates a task force to study the merger of the Louisiana Motor Vehicle Commission and the Louisiana Used Motor Vehicle Commission
Last Action: Taken by the Clerk of the House and presented to the Secretary of State in accordance with the Rules of the House.
Date: 2025-06-13
Author: Kim Carver (R)
SB37: Provides for the Louisiana Motor Vehicle Commission. (8/1/25)
Last Action: Effective date 6/20/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Bob Hensgens (R)
SB122: Provides relative to the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. (8/1/25)
Last Action: Effective date 8/1/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Mark Abraham (R)
SENATE floor amendments [LINK] raise the licensing threshold to $50,000, clarify HUD standards for manufactured housing, allow CPA financial statements in lieu of signed forms, correct legal references, and move the compliance date to January 1, 2026.
SENATE committee amendments [LINK] clarify mold remediation training, define residential roofing as a construction subclass, move the compliance date to September, and require proof of insurance. They also ban contractors from interpreting insurance policies or adjusting claims and extend a response deadline from 60 to 90 days.
Revises licensing and regulation by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors.
Key Provisions:
- Adds and clarifies contractor classifications, including residential roofing (effective Jan. 1, 2026), home improvement, mold remediation, and solar energy equipment.
- Sets board and subcommittee member term limits and allows removal for poor attendance or cause.
- Requires applicant background checks and establishes financial net-worth minimums ($50,000 for general licenses; $25,000 for home improvement, mold remediation, labor-only).
- Removes licensing exemption for state/political subdivisions.
- Strengthens enforcement on permitting, insurance requirements, recordkeeping, inspections, and written contracts.
- Establishes penalties for violations; unpaid fines may result in license denial or revocation.
Effective: August 1, 2025.
SB136: Provides for rate transparency reports. (1/1/26)
Last Action: Effective date 1/1/2027.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Kirk Talbot (R)
Co-sponsors: Tehmi Chassion (D)
HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] require insurers to provide a copy of the rate transparency report to help consumers understand rates. The report must now clearly state the "projected cost" of insurance coverage rather than just "the cost." Certain duplicative or unnecessary language has been removed, and the commissioner must adopt rules in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act. The amendments explicitly state that this section does not create a private right of action for consumers and push back the effective date from January 1, 2026, to July 1, 2026.
SENATE floor amendments technical
Requires insurers providing residential property or private passenger automobile coverage to submit a clear, consumer-friendly rate transparency report with every rate filing. Insurers must provide personalized versions of these reports to consumers upon initial coverage offers and renewals to clarify premium costs and underlying factors.
Key Provisions:
- Mandates insurers to include a transparency report detailing percentage breakdowns of factors impacting premiums, such as reinsurance, claims costs, fees, insurer profit margins, and contingencies.
- Requires reports to disclose any major adverse regulatory findings against insurers from the past three years and identify relationships with affiliated entities or managing general agents.
- Specifies homeowners' policy renewals must note any changes in total insured value.
- Empowers the insurance commissioner to reject filings if transparency reports are misleading or not consumer-friendly.
- Authorizes the commissioner to adopt necessary rules to enforce these requirements.
- Effective January 1, 2026.
HB310: Provides relative to filings in civil and criminal courts
Last Action: Effective date: 08/01/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Jerome Zeringue (R)
Proposes amendments to the Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure and the Code of Criminal Procedure concerning document filings in civil and criminal courts.
Key Provisions:
1. Filing Methods:
Effective January 1, 2026, all court filings, civil or criminal, must be submitted either in person in paper form or electronically through systems provided by the clerk of court or the Louisiana Clerks' Remote Access Authority. This requirement applies to all individuals submitting filings, not just attorneys.
2. Responsibility for Private Information:
Filers must ensure that their submissions do not include private information. Specifically prohibited information includes the first five digits of social security numbers, tax identification numbers, state identification numbers, driver's license numbers, financial account numbers, full dates of birth, or any other data protected from disclosure under state or federal laws.
3. Clerk of Court's Role:
Clerks of court are responsible for creating systems for electronic filing, storage, and access to pleadings, documents, and exhibits. An electronically filed document is officially recorded as filed on the date and time provided by the electronic filing confirmation if accepted by the clerk. Public access to electronic filings will follow the same guidelines as traditional paper filings.
HB326: Provides relative to the Louisiana Cosmetology Act (EN INCREASE SG RV See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: 06/20/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Rhonda Butler (R)
OVERREGULATION
HOUSE committee amendments technical
Focuses on the composition and qualifications of the Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology and adjustments to related fees. Key changes include specifying that the board will consist of eight members appointed by the governor, with at least one member from each congressional district, including professionals such as cosmetologists, estheticians, and manicurists. Additionally, the bill outlines that board members must have at least five years of active experience in their respective fields and aims to ensure diverse educational representation by preventing all members from being graduates of the same school. To avoid conflicts of interest, no more than four members can be connected to cosmetology schools. The bill also proposes adjustments to various fees, including initial certificates of registration and renewals for professionals and establishments, as well as fees related to inspections and permits.
HB358: Permits a pharmacy technician to work remotely in certain circumstances
Last Action: Notice House adopted the Conference Committee Report.
Date: 2025-06-12
Author: Dustin Miller (D)
Co-sponsors: Tehmi Chassion (D) Beryl Amedee (R) Tony Bacala (R) Lawrence Bagley (R) Mike Bayham (R) Stephanie Berault (R) Marcus Bryant (D) Rhonda Butler (R) Dewith Carrier (R) Emily Chenevert (R) Kimberly Coates (R) Raymond Crews (R) Phillip DeVillier (R) Jason DeWitt (R) Kellee Dickerson (R) Jessica Domangue (R) Michael Echols (R) Kathy Edmonston (R) Peter Egan (R) Julie Emerson (R) Gabe Firment (R) Adrian Fisher (D) Brian Glorioso (R) Dodie Horton (R) Mike Johnson (R) Travis Johnson (D) Jeremy LaCombe (R) Jacob Landry (R) Shane Mack (R) Denise Marcelle (D) Danny McCormick (R) Jack McFarland (R) Wayne McMahen (R) Dixon McMakin (R) Pat Moore (D) Charles Owen (R) Rodney Schamerhorn (R) Annie Spell (R) Francis Thompson (R) Joy Walters (D) Roger Wilder (R) Jeff Wiley (R) John Wyble (R)
...and 38 more.
Seeks to amend R.S. 37:1212 to permit licensed pharmacy technicians in Louisiana to remotely access their pharmacy's electronic prescription records and dispensing information systems. The bill mandates that pharmacies implement measures to protect the privacy and security of confidential records. Additionally, it prohibits pharmacy technicians from duplicating, downloading, or removing any part of the pharmacy's software or dispensing information systems.
HB371: Provides relative to the free exercise of religion
Last Action: Effective date: 06/20/2025.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Beryl Amedee (R)
Co-sponsors: Mike Bayham (R) Stephanie Berault (R) Dewith Carrier (R) Kim Carver (R) Emily Chenevert (R) Vincent Cox (R) Raymond Crews (R) Phillip DeVillier (R) Kathy Edmonston (R) Peter Egan (R) Gabe Firment (R) Brian Glorioso (R) Dodie Horton (R) Shane Mack (R) Danny McCormick (R) Pat Moore (D) Charles Owen (R) Rodney Schamerhorn (R) Phillip Tarver (R) Sylvia Taylor (D) Lauren Ventrella (R) Roger Wilder (R) John Wyble (R) Valarie Hodges (R)
...and 19 more.
HOUSE floor amendments [LINK] authorize "home study education cooperatives," allowing parents with children in approved home study programs to collectively meet for academic, enrichment, or athletic purposes. They clarify exemptions for such cooperatives and similar religious enrichment programs ("mother's day out") from certain regulations, provided they operate no more than 24 hours per week. Additionally, the definition of "camp" is revised to explicitly include Vacation Bible Schools or Bible Camps.
HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] expand protections for religious freedom by preventing government from restricting the use of churches for religious education, meetings, or activities like Bible camps if the building meets safety codes. It defines key terms, outlines legal remedies, and adds a new provision to protect gatherings related to homeschooling. It also makes the bill effective upon the governor’s signature.
Seeks to amend R.S. 13:5233 of the Preservation of Religious Freedom Act. The proposed legislation mandates that the government provide the highest level of protection to places of worship, such as churches, synagogues, and temples. Additionally, it prohibits the government from imposing restrictions on these religious institutions that are more severe than those applied to any secular business, service, or assembly.
Under this strict scrutiny standard, the government must:
1. Demonstrate a compelling governmental interest for restricting religious activities.
2. Ensure any restriction is narrowly tailored, meaning it must use the least restrictive means available.
3. Religious institutions cannot face restrictions harsher than those applied to secular entities.
HB467: Requires health insurance coverage for amino acid-based elemental formulas (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: See Act.
Date: 2025-06-20
Author: Stephanie Hilferty (R)
Co-sponsors: Mandie Landry (D) Regina Barrow (D) Rick Edmonds (R) Brach Myers (R) Alan Seabaugh (R) Kirk Talbot (R) William Wheat (R)
...and 2 more.
REENGROSSED FISCAL NOTE does not have adequate information only INCREASE across the board
HOUSE APPROPS committee amendments [LINK] delays implementation until funded and to any new health insurance policy issued on or after January 1 following the bill’s effective date. For policies already in effect, insurers must comply either by the policy’s renewal date or within 359 days after that January 1, whichever comes first. However, the main parts of the bill won’t take effect at all unless the Legislature also passes another law that specifically provides funding to implement it. The section explaining this funding requirement becomes effective immediately upon the governor’s signature or when the bill becomes law through the normal process or a veto override.
HOUSE INS committee amendment [LINK] requires health insurers and Medicaid to cover amino acid-based formulas for children aged two or younger when prescribed by a board-certified allergist or gastroenterologist as medically necessary. The amendment specifies that coverage must apply regardless of how the formula is delivered. It also sets implementation dates: new health plans must comply starting January 1, 2026, and existing plans must comply upon renewal, but no later than January 1, 2027.
Requires health insurers that provide maternity benefits, including Medicaid, to cover amino acid-based elemental formulas for infants and children when deemed medically necessary by a physician. Applies to treatment of the following conditions:
- Allergies to multiple food proteins
- Severe food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome
- Eosinophilic disorders (biopsy-confirmed)
- GI tract disorders impairing nutrient absorption
Coverage must be equivalent to coverage for prescription drugs and related services. May include deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. Allows utilization review of medical necessity.
In Louisiana, Medicaid may cover formulas not included in WIC's offerings or amounts exceeding WIC's limits, provided there is proper medical documentation and prior authorization.
HB669: Continues a portion of the excise tax levied on cigarettes in statute (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF RV See Note)
Last Action: Effective date: 07/07/2025.
Date: 2025-07-01
Author: Neil Riser (R)
HOUSE floor amendments [LINK] strip out language that would assess taxes on some nicotine products, to only reinstate tax of four-twentieths of one cent for cigarettes is levied, as specified by the state constitution and was inadvertently stripped out during the special tax session in 2024.
HOUSE committee amendments [LINK] reduce state tobacco taxes for products the FDA classifies as “modified risk.” It cuts the tax by 60% for products with a risk modification order and by 40% for those with an exposure modification order. It also deletes other sections of the original bill and updates legal references.
Continues a portion of the cigarette excise tax in statute and reduces tax rates for certain tobacco products with FDA approval.
Key Provisions:
- Codifies in statute the 4¢ per cigarette tax ($0.80 per pack) currently continued by the Louisiana Constitution (Article VII, §4.1).
- Maintains total cigarette tax at $1.08 per pack; does not raise or lower the overall tax.
- Authorizes a 75% tax rate reduction for “modified risk tobacco products” approved by the FDA under 21 U.S.C. 387k(g).
- Adds or clarifies definitions including “invoice price,” “manufacturer’s net invoiced price,” and “cigarette” (expanded to include heated tobacco).
- Applies to taxable periods beginning July 1, 2025.
- Effective upon governor’s signature or lapse of time.