Provides for the Louisiana Citizens Home Strengthening Grant Pilot Program. (8/1/17)
Impact
The implementation of SB 134 is expected to have a positive impact on state laws relating to property insurance and homeowner safety. By promoting retrofitting, the bill seeks to reduce the potential losses from catastrophic wind events, thereby benefiting both homeowners and insurance companies by decreasing the likelihood of costly claims. The funding for the program will come from Citizens' existing reserves, demonstrating a proactive approach to disaster preparedness and mitigation within the insurance framework of Louisiana.
Summary
Senate Bill 134 establishes the Louisiana Citizens Home Strengthening Grant Pilot Program, which is aimed at providing financial assistance to policyholders of the Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation. This program allows eligible policyholders to receive grants of up to $15,000 for retrofitting their primary residences to enhance their resilience against windstorms, including hurricanes and tornadoes. The program is specifically targeted at residents in the parishes of Cameron, Vermilion, St. Mary, Terrebonne, and LaFourche and lasts for a duration of 12 consecutive months with a total budget capped at $1.5 million.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB 134 appears to be predominantly supportive, particularly among those in disaster-prone areas who recognize the necessity for enhanced home fortification. Proponents argue that this program represents a crucial step in safeguarding communities against future storm-related damages. However, there may be some contention regarding the program's limitations, specifically its geographical focus, which could leave out residents in equally vulnerable areas not covered by the pilot program.
Contention
The primary points of contention regarding SB 134 revolve around the accessibility and equity of the grant program. While it focuses on certain parishes, stakeholders in other vulnerable regions have raised concerns about a lack of similar assistance. Additionally, there may be questions regarding the adequacy of funding and whether the budget will be sufficient to meet the anticipated demand. These discussions highlight the balance between targeted efforts for immediate risk reduction and broader strategies for statewide resilience.
Creates the My Safe Louisiana Home Program within the Louisiana Housing Corporation and provides for funding of the program (EG -$1,000,000 GF RV See Note)
Requests the Louisiana Department of Insurance to conduct a comprehensive study on incentives and standard benchmarks for integration into the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.