Louisiana House Bill HB305

Louisiana 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/8/13
• Refer: 4/8/13

Caption

Appropriates funds for payment of judgment in the matter of "Melissa Maturin v. State of Louisiana, through the Department of Transportation and Development, parish and/or City of New Iberia"

Impact

The passage of HB 305 has notable implications for the state's fiscal policies and how legal judgments are funded within the state government framework. By appropriating funds explicitly for court judgment payments, it reflects the state’s commitment to uphold legal obligations while managing budgetary appropriations effectively. This can set precedence for similar future appropriations where funds need to be allocated for judgments against the state, potentially affecting the state budget and funding allocations for other programs in the future.

Summary

House Bill 305, introduced by Representative Johnson, focuses on appropriating funds for the payment of a judgment in a specific legal case, 'Melissa Maturin v. State of Louisiana, through the Department of Transportation and Development'. The bill authorizes the state to allocate a total of $13,695.09, comprising $12,500 for the judgment and an additional $1,195.09 for Medicaid reimbursement. Approval of this bill ensures that the state can fulfill its financial obligations resulting from the court's consent judgment, which is related to a legal claim involving the state and local governance in New Iberia, Louisiana.

Sentiment

Based on discussions surrounding the bill, the sentiment appears to be generally procedural, focusing on the necessary financial appropriations to comply with judicial rulings. There doesn't seem to be significant public or legislative contention noted with this specific bill, as it serves to fulfill a required payment rather than introduce new legislative measures or controversial policy changes.

Contention

While HB 305 does not present major points of contention in the legislative discourse, it may raise questions regarding fiscal responsibility and the handling of such appropriations in future cases. Lawmakers will need to ensure that the state's financial health is preserved while satisfying legal judgments. This bill may prompt discussions regarding mechanisms for funding judgments against the state in a manner that minimizes impact on other state-funded programs.