Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB779

Introduced
3/4/16  
Introduced
3/4/16  
Refer
3/4/16  
Refer
3/14/16  

Caption

Provides relative to the domicile of certain juridical persons

Impact

The proposed changes could have significant implications for the way laws are applied to out-of-state businesses. By establishing that these juridical entities are considered domiciled in Louisiana for purposes of tort obligations, the bill aims to hold them accountable under state laws. This could enhance consumer protections and increase the legal recourse available to individuals harmed by the actions of these entities, potentially leading to greater compliance with Louisiana regulations among businesses operating within its borders.

Summary

House Bill 779 aims to amend the Louisiana Civil Code by modifying the rules governing the domicile of certain juridical persons, specifically those that are incorporated outside of Louisiana but conduct business within the state. The bill states that any juridical person engaged in business in Louisiana and incurring delictual or quasi-delictual obligations as a result of that business will be deemed a domiciliary of Louisiana, regardless of the existing domicile rules stipulated in the Civil Code. This change is intended to clarify the legal standing of out-of-state businesses operating in Louisiana.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 779 reflects both support and concern among legislators and stakeholders. Proponents argue that the bill provides necessary protections for Louisiana consumers and ensures that out-of-state businesses are subject to equivalent legal standards as local entities. However, critics raise concerns that this could deter businesses from expanding operations in Louisiana due to increased liability risks, and they query the fairness of imposing Louisiana law on entities that have not established a formal domicile in the state.

Contention

Discussions about HB 779 have highlighted legal and economic considerations, particularly regarding how the bill could affect business operations and liability exposure. Supporters believe that by treating out-of-state businesses as residents for legal purposes, the bill enables better enforcement of laws designed to protect consumers. Detractors, however, warn that this could lead to unintended consequences, including business reluctance to engage in Louisiana markets, impacting overall economic growth.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HB289

Provides with respect to a corporation's juridical personality at the termination of corporate existence

LA HB588

Provides relative to extending liberative prescriptive periods

LA HB464

Provides relative to civil procedure

LA HB148

Provides relative to venue for certain actions

LA HB181

Provides relative to definition of terms in the Civil Code

LA SB134

Provides for parental authority of married persons, obligations of children, parents, and other ascendants, and provisional custody by mandate. (1/1/16) (EN NO IMPACT See Note)

LA SB334

Provides relative to certain prescriptive periods for delictual actions. (8/1/24)

LA HB443

Provides relative to certain notifications in delictual actions

LA HB466

Provides for revision of Civil Code articles relative to the rent of lands and annuities

LA HB13

Authorizes a natural or juridical person to serve as director of the Registrars of Voters Employees' Retirement System

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.