Louisiana House Bill HB266

Louisiana 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/21
• Refer: 3/29/21
• Refer: 4/12/21

Caption

Appropriates funds for payment of the consent judgment against the state in the suit entitled James Geduldick v. Amanda Fagane et al. c/w Ronald L. Courtney and Rebecca L. Morris v. Liberty Mutual Insurance Company et al.

Impact

The passage of HB 266 serves as an important mechanism for enforcing a legal agreement reached in court. By appropriating state funds to pay for a judicial outcome, it emphasizes the state's commitment to fulfilling its financial obligations resulting from lawsuits against it. This measure showcases how legislative actions can directly influence the enforcement of judicial decisions, thereby ensuring that justice is upheld within the state's legal framework.

Summary

House Bill 266 is an act that appropriates $18,000 from the Louisiana State General Fund in order to fulfill a consent judgment related to the case of James Geduldick v. Amanda Fagane and others. The bill specifically outlines that the payment will be directed towards covering the principal, interest, court costs, and expert witness fees as awarded in the judgment. The bill ensures that this amount is only paid if the judgment is deemed final and provides a framework for the payment to be executed through documentation required by the state treasurer.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 266 appears to be neutral, given its procedural nature. There are no significant controversies reported in the discussions; the focus seems to be entirely on compliance with a judicial mandate rather than on policy debates or public opinion. Legislators likely view it as a necessary legislative step to honor the state’s commitments without significant opposition arising from either political or public spheres.

Contention

While there are no notable points of contention specifically articulated regarding HB 266, it is indicative of larger discussions about state fiscal responsibility and the handling of consent judgments. The approving of funds for such payments is vital as they reflect the operational integrity of the state government in adhering to legal rulings. However, it raises broader questions about how many similar judgments may affect state finances in the future.