Louisiana House Bill HB1111

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/31/14
• Refer: 4/1/14

Caption

Appropriates funds for payment of judgment in the matter of "Kevin Walker and Kim Bolden v. State of Louisiana through DOTD"

Impact

The approval of HB 1111 directly impacts the state budget by designating funds to settle legal disputes involving the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD). It's part of broader efforts to manage liabilities that arise from the state's operations, reflecting the government's responsibility to address and pay legal judgments in an accountable manner. This ensures the financial integrity and operational continuity of the state government.

Summary

House Bill 1111 focuses on appropriating funds from the state general fund of Louisiana for the fiscal year 2014-2015. The bill specifically allocates a sum of $7,500 to cover a consent judgment pertaining to the legal case 'Kevin Walker and Kim Bolden v. State of Louisiana through DOTD', which has been filed in the Nineteenth Judicial District Court. This legislation is critical as it ensures that the state meets its financial obligations arising from judicial decisions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1111 is generally neutral to positive, as it addresses a specific judicial outcome that necessitates state action. There may not be significant opposition, given that it is a procedural bill that appropriates funds rather than creating new law or altering existing regulations. Stakeholders likely recognize the importance of complying with judicial rulings, which contributes to maintaining trust in governmental operations.

Contention

While HB 1111 appears to be straightforward, the existence of legal judgments against the state can provoke discussions about liability management. Proponents of the bill likely emphasize the necessity of funding settlements to avoid accruing further financial penalties. However, critics may reflect on the broader implications of state spending and accountability, calling for more stringent oversight on how such settlements are incurred and managed to prevent excessive legal costs in the future.