Louisiana House Bill HB73

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/14
• Refer: 3/10/14

Caption

Appropriates funds for payment of judgment in the matter of "Robert L. Knippers and Lessie T. Knippers v. State of Louisiana DOTD, et al"

Impact

The bill has direct implications for state fiscal management and budget allocation, as it outlines a specific appropriation for covering legal costs linked to judgments against the state. By authorizing this expenditure, the bill seeks to ensure compliance with the court's ruling and acknowledges the state's legal liabilities. The funding is meant to be drawn from the state’s general fund, which could have wider fiscal implications for other programs and services that rely on that fund.

Summary

House Bill 73 aims to appropriate a sum of $30,000 from the state general fund for the fiscal year 2014-2015 to cover the payment of a consent judgment resulting from the case 'Robert L. Knippers and Lessie T. Knippers v. State of Louisiana, DOTD, et al.' This legal matter, documented as case number 59,598-A in the 11th Judicial District Court of Sabine Parish, involves a judgment that has financial implications for the state in relation to its obligations stemming from previous legal actions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 73 is largely procedural and focused on compliance with legal obligations rather than ideological debate. There appears to be a consensus on the necessity of fulfilling the financial judgment, given that not doing so could lead to further legal consequences for the state. Mixed opinions may exist regarding the broader implications of repeated legal settlements and their impact on state funding priorities, though specific contentious views were not highlighted in the discussions provided.

Contention

While the bill itself does not seem to spark significant controversy, discussions around any state appropriation may touch upon broader issues of fiscal responsibility and the management of funds. Critics of state spending could argue that consistent appropriations for legal judgments indicate a need for better legal oversight and risk management to prevent future liabilities. However, the specific case that HB 73 addresses does not appear to have generated notable public or legislative contention.