Louisiana House Bill HB99

Louisiana 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/21
• Refer: 3/11/21
• Refer: 4/12/21

Caption

Appropriates funds for payment of consent judgment against the state through the Department of Transportation and Development in the suit entitled "Larry and Rose Storey, et ux versus State of Louisiana, through the Department of Transportation and Development, G. Wall and Safeway Insurance Company of Louisiana"

Impact

The passage of HB 99 will directly affect the state’s budget allocation, as it involves the appropriation of funds specifically designated for settling legal judgments. This financial commitment indicates how the state prioritizes legal obligations and seeks to ensure that justice is served through appropriate compensation for the plaintiffs involved in the case. The effective date of the bill is set for July 1, 2021, establishing a timeline for the execution of these payments.

Summary

House Bill 99 seeks to appropriate $75,000 from the State General Fund for the fiscal year 2021-2022 to cover a consent judgment in the case of 'Larry and Rose Storey, et ux versus State of Louisiana'. The judgment was finalized by Judge Brenda Bedsole Ricks on April 22, 2015, following a lawsuit against the state's Department of Transportation and Development. This bill aims to fulfill the financial obligations arising from that court ruling, thus emphasizing the state’s accountability in legal matters.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 99 appears to be neutral, stemming from the fact that it is a procedural measure primarily focused on fulfilling legal obligations. There seems to be minimal opposition or debate regarding the bill itself, likely due to the nature of the funds being appropriated for an already adjudicated legal case. The straightforward nature of the bill, addressing settlement payments, does not invite significant public outcry or contention.

Contention

Given that HB 99 is focused on authorizing the payment of a consent judgment, contention primarily stems from the various perspectives on fiscal responsibility and the appropriations process. Some stakeholders may express concerns over budget allocation priorities in light of ongoing state funding challenges. It must be noted, however, that as this measure pertains to an existing judgment, the contentious nature typically found in legislative discussions around new or controversial laws is largely absent in this case.