Louisiana House Bill HB587

Louisiana 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/3/15
• Refer: 4/3/15
• Refer: 4/13/15

Caption

Appropriates funds for the payment of judgments in the matter of "Steve Brengettsy, et al v. the State of Louisiana, through the DOTD, et al"

Impact

The passage of HB 587 would have a direct financial impact on the state budget, specifically drawing from the General Fund to settle legal obligations that have arisen from the court's ruling in the Brengettsy case. This appropriation may set a precedence for future funding allocations concerning other similar legal judgments against state entities, thus influencing the budgeting and legislative practices related to legal settlements. Furthermore, it communicates the state's commitment to honoring judicial decisions and fulfilling financial obligations arising from legal disputes.

Summary

House Bill 587 is a proposed legislation that appropriates funds from the General Fund of the state of Louisiana for the Fiscal Year 2015-2016. The bill aims to allocate a total of $205,000 to cover consent judgments stemming from a legal case titled 'Steve Brengettsy, et al v. the State of Louisiana, through the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), et al.' The appropriated funds are divided into two specific amounts: $185,000 to be awarded to plaintiff Steve Brengettsy and $20,000 to be given to plaintiff Elro McQuarter. The bill stipulates that these funds are to address the judgments awarded by the court related to the aforementioned case.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 587 appears to be pragmatic, focusing on the necessity of fulfilling the state's financial responsibilities regarding court-awarded judgments. There does not seem to be a significant public opposition or contentious debate about this particular bill, likely due to its straightforward nature in addressing a legal requirement rather than initiating new policy or contentious issues. However, as with any financial appropriation, some stakeholders may question the allocation of state funds and its impact on other budget priorities.

Contention

While HB 587 doesn't spark significant contention in its current form, discussions might arise regarding how such appropriations affect other areas of the state budget. It touches on the broader concerns about the state's liability in legal cases and the implications that might have on future legislative and financial planning. The bill’s intent is clear in addressing a specific legal judgment, but it prompts considerations about fiscal responsibility and the management of state funds in light of evolving legal challenges.