Legislation blocking coastal local governments from suing the oil industry for damages dies in the House as the bill sponsor admits they just ran out of time to pass it this year. Louisiana Oil and Gas Association President Gifford Briggs says it is a frustrating outcome, and the lawsuits will never lead to a windfall for local governments and is just a trial lawyer scheme.
Local government leaders say the lawsuits will be instrumental in undoing industry damage.
Tort reform legislation that supports say will lower auto insurance rates is approved by the House and appears likely to gain final passage in one form or another Monday. The legislation lowers the jury threshold from 50-thousand to five-thousand dollars. But Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle says this will actually hurt an injured person’s ability to recover damages.
Legislation allowing delivery services that use contract workers to deliver alcohol is headed to the Governor. Bill sponsor Franklin Senator Bret Allain says it is timely legislation.
Restaurants are still limited to delivering sealed beer or wine, and grocery stores may deliver any type of packaged alcohol.
There will be several changes when college students return to campus in the Fall due to COVID-19. University of Louisiana System President Jim Henderson says it’s all designed to protect the students, staff, and faculty. For example, changing the calendar so students will complete the semester before Thanksgiving.