Requests the Louisiana State Law Institute to examine the laws relative to motor vehicle accidents
Impact
If enacted, HCR95 could lead to significant revisions in state laws governing motor vehicle-related incidents. The potential creation of a crime for causing serious injury or death could reshape how traffic violations are prosecuted, likely moving away from a model that currently imposes only minor penalties for severe accidents. This may enhance deterrence for reckless driving behaviors and provide justice for victims and their families by holding offenders more accountable for their actions.
Summary
HCR95 is a resolution that urges the Louisiana State Law Institute to review current state laws related to motor vehicle accidents, specifically to consider the establishment of a new crime addressing the infliction of serious injuries or death to road users. The resolution highlights the concerning statistics of traffic fatalities, particularly among pedestrians and motorcyclists, and prompts a need for legal reform to improve road safety and accountability among drivers. By examining existing laws, the Louisiana State Law Institute aims to assess whether stronger legal ramifications are warranted for negligent driving incidents that result in serious harm or death.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR95 appears to be largely supportive, especially among advocates for road safety who believe stronger penalties are essential to protect vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists. However, there may be concerns from certain sectors, including those worried about the implications of increasing penalties for drivers, which could affect behavior and insurance rates. Overall, the bill reflects a growing recognition of the need for enhanced safety measures in light of rising fatality rates in motor vehicle accidents.
Contention
A notable point of contention within discussions surrounding HCR95 may arise from the potential implications of implementing new charges for drivers involved in accidents causing serious harm. Some legislators and interest groups may debate the balance between enhancing public safety and the fairness of imposing harsher legal consequences on individuals, particularly in cases where accidents may not have been entirely preventable. The examination of these laws could also influence broader legislative initiatives aimed at improving safety standards and accountability in Louisiana.
Urges and requests the Louisiana State Law Institute to study a possible change or increase in penalties for drivers who injure or kill pedestrians or cyclists
Urges and requests the Louisiana Highway Commission to analyze compliance with certain requirements for operation of a motor vehicle and certain traffic laws
Urges and requests the office of motor vehicles to study the necessity of Louisiana state identification cards for citizens with Alzheimer's and related dementia diseases
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.