Louisiana House Bill HB1034

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/5/16
• Refer: 4/6/16

Caption

Appropriates funds for payment of judgment in the matter of "Adam Moore v. State Farm Mutual Automobile Company, et al." c/w "State Farm Mutual Automotive Insurance Company v. James Herrington, et al." c/w "James Herrington v. State of Louisiana, through the Department of Transportation and Development"

Impact

The passage of HB 1034 would have a direct fiscal impact on the state budget, as it entails mandatory payments as part of court judgments. This legislative action reflects the state's commitment to comply with judicial rulings, thereby maintaining the integrity of the legal system. By appropriating funds for these specific judgments, the legislature aims to uphold its obligations and prevent any further legal repercussions that could arise from non-compliance. Such appropriations are essential in ensuring public trust in the government’s accountability regarding legal matters.

Summary

House Bill 1034 is a legislative proposal aimed at appropriating funds from the General Fund of the state of Louisiana for the Fiscal Year 2016-2017. The bill specifically allocates $175,000 to be paid to Adam Moore and $75,000 to James Herrington. These funds are designated to satisfy a court-ordered consent judgment resulting from a legal case involving multiple parties, including State Farm Mutual Automobile Company and the State of Louisiana. The context of the bill centers around legal accountability and financial settlements arising from lawsuits involving state entities.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1034 appears to align with general support for fulfilling legal obligations. However, the discussion may also reflect concerns regarding state financial management and prioritization of funds, as legislative appropriations must balance various competing needs within the state. The general inclination to honor judicial decisions symbolizes a proactive stance by the state, though it may incite discussions about budget allocations and the implications of legal settlements on state finances.

Contention

While the bill aims to fulfill a legal requirement, points of contention could arise related to the overall impact on the state's budget and how such funds might detract from other programs or services. Additionally, stakeholders may question the rationale behind the specific amounts appropriated and whether they adequately reflect the judgments rendered. The legislative discourse surrounding HB 1034 may highlight the broader concerns of transparency and efficacy in the state's financial dealings regarding legal disputes.