Urges and requests the Louisiana Attorney General to investigate certain companies doing business in the state to determine if the companies have engaged in prohibited activities
Impact
HCR2 reflects the growing concern regarding internet service providers' accountability and the need for customer protection in Louisiana. The resolution cites numerous complaints about Suddenlink's alleged failure to deliver services, poor customer communication, and potentially deceptive trade practices. If the investigation yields findings of wrongdoing, it could lead to significant regulatory changes and enforcement actions, impacting how telecommunications companies operate within the state.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 2 (HCR2) urges the Louisiana Attorney General and relevant federal agencies to investigate Altice USA and Suddenlink Communications for possible violations of state and federal law. The resolution arises in the context of increasing reliance on internet connectivity, especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. It acknowledges that many Louisianans depend on internet service for education, telemedicine, and small business activities, emphasizing the critical nature of reliable communication services.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR2 is one of urgency and advocacy for consumer rights. Lawmakers and constituents alike express frustration with the service quality and reliability offered by Altice USA and Suddenlink. The resolution highlights a bipartisan agreement on the necessity of investigating these companies to ensure compliance with both state and federal standards, aiming to protect the interests of Louisiana's citizens, particularly during challenging times such as a pandemic or natural disaster.
Contention
While HCR2 is positioned as a consumer protection measure, there may be underlying tensions regarding the role of state versus federal oversight of telecommunications. Some stakeholders may argue that additional investigations could lead to overregulation or may discourage business operations in Louisiana. However, the prevailing view among those supporting the resolution indicates a need to address any unfair practices and enhance service reliability rather than stifle business activity.
Urges and requests the Louisiana attorney general to seek legal relief against the Federal Emergency Management Agency's new pricing for the National Flood Insurance Program
Requests each member of the Louisiana congressional delegation, certain state agencies, and private companies to expand the Department of Defense SkillBridge program to include reserve members of the National Guard
Requests the Louisiana State Law Institute to study and make recommendations regarding revision of the laws of limited liability companies, nonprofit corporations, and other business entities in the state of Louisiana
Requests the Department of Economic Development to study and report on commercial activities by state-owned companies or organizations based in and subsidized by certain foreign governments and requests the state treasurer to certify that no public funds are used to support commercial activities in certain foreign governments
Urges the attorney general and the Louisiana Department of Insurance to investigate pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) for potential violations of law and to urge and request the legislature to pass legislation prohibiting PBMs from owning or having a financial interest in pharmacies in this state
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.