Prohibits pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from profiting via spread pricing or rebate retention. Requires PBMs to be compensated only through disclosed fees in contracts with insurers or health plans. Mandates PBMs respond to audits and certify accuracy of data. Bans "effective rate pricing" for local pharmacies and strengthens transparency, reporting, and patient protection. Effective upon governor’s signature.

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.

SENATE floor amendments technical

SENATE committee amendments [LINK] create two financial incentive programs for events in Louisiana. One supports major events like the Super Bowl, Essence Festival, or NCAA championships. The other supports smaller events with at least $350,000 in projected economic impact, offering grants up to 25% of costs, capped at $250,000. The bill establishes the Events Incentive Fund, administered by Louisiana Economic Development, with rules, application requirements, and annual reporting to the legislature.

Revises the definition of "qualified major event" under the Major Events Incentive Program to include any event with a “significant positive impact” on the state, defined as an economic impact of at least $25 million (verified by LED). Authorizes LED to contract for such events only when a specific appropriation from the Major Events Incentive Fund is made.

Effective July 1, 2025.

SENATE FIN committee amendments [LINK] add a funding condition, stating that the bill’s implementation depends on the Legislature appropriating funds for it.

SENATE EDU committee amendments [LINK] detail the transition process of moving UNO to the LSU System, requiring a transition team, a comprehensive improvement plan by April 2026, and budget support from LSU. They clarify funding responsibilities, insurance coverage, legislative oversight, and ensure alignment with regional workforce and educational goals.

Transfers the University of New Orleans (UNO) from the University of Louisiana System to the Louisiana State University (LSU) System. Requires compliance with accreditation procedures and approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) before the transfer becomes effective.

Prohibits the UL System from taking actions that would obstruct the transfer or diminish UNO’s assets, funding, or personnel. Requires cooperative agreements between the two systems and mandates that sufficient state funding and resources be provided to facilitate the transition.

Effective upon governor’s signature. Requires two-thirds vote.

Let’s tax New Orleans out of the tourism industry!!!!! How much has New Orleans has lost in tourism in the last few years due to crime, high costs and high taxes.

Increases the maximum hotel assessment that a tourism organization may levy in Orleans Parish from 1.75% to 2.75% of the daily room charge. Funds must be used for marketing, sales, public relations, and tourism-related economic development, and must be approved by the organization’s board and ratified by a vote of assessed hotels.

Effective August 1, 2025.