DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 74 Reengrossed 2021 Regular Session Frieman
Abstract: Requires all insurers issuing workers' compensation policies in La. to either maintain a
claims office in La. or retain a La. licensed claims adjuster.
Present law requires foreign and alien insurers issuing workers' compensation policies in La. to either
maintain a claims office in La. for processing such claims or to retain the services of a La. domiciled
independent claims adjuster.
Proposed law retains present law but removes the requirement that the retained La. claims adjuster
be domiciled independently.
Present law provides that all insurers who issue workers' compensation policies in this state shall
either establish and maintain a claims office within the state or retain a licensed claims adjuster.
Proposed law retains present law but specifies that the retained claims adjuster shall be licensed in
La.
Proposed law provides that any insurer issuing workers' compensation policies in La. shall make any
relevant claims adjuster available for deposition via telephone or video conferencing in the event a
disputed claim for compensation is filed in which liability for statutory penalties and attorneys fees
is at issue. Proposed law further provides that insurers make such adjusters available for in person
testimony at the insurer's expense if a trial becomes necessary to adjudicate the disputed claim for
compensation.
(Amends R.S. 22:337(A)(17) and R.S. 23:1161.1(A); enacts R.S. 23:1161.1 (E))
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
The Committee Amendments Proposed by House Committee on Insurance to the original bill:
1. Make technical changes.
The House Floor Amendments to the engrossed bill:
1. Provide that insurers issuing workers' compensation policies shall make any relevant
claims adjuster available, at the insurer's expense, in the event a disputed claim for
compensation is filed and later adjudicated.