A move to do away with the state’s mandatory helmet law for motorcyclists has cleared another legislative hurdle. Teiko Foxx has more…
Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”
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The House Civil Law Committee approves a bill extending the amount of time a civil lawsuit can be filed from one to two years. Jeff Palermo explains why it has the support of the governor…
Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”
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Legislation to repeal the state’s mandatory motorcycle helmet law passed the full House in a 60-43 vote. The law has been in place since 2004. Bill’s author, Hornbeck Representative Rodney Shamerhorn says wearing a helmet is a freedom of choice.
Cut 3 (12) “…protect yourself.”
Under the proposed bill, motorcycle riders 21 and older would have the option of wearing safety helmets if they can prove they have health insurance. Shamerhorn says riders have the right to make the final call.
Cut 4 (12) “…you make.”
The state’s current law requires both riders and passengers to wear safety helmets regardless of age.
Opponent of the bill, Monroe Representative Pat Moore believes this legislation will lead to more highway deaths. She says insurance company payouts translates to increased insurance rates.
Cut 5 (13) “…of Louisiana.”
Louisiana is one of 17 states that require full time helmets while riding a motorcycle. Moore says there are benefits that come from wearing a safety helmet.
Cut 6 (06) “…possibly dying.”
The measure heads to the Senate for more debate.
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In an effort to reduce insurance rates, the House Civil Law Committee unanimously approved a bill that would extend the time from one to two years to file a civil lawsuit. Governor Jeff Landry this says will give an insurer and the claimant additional time to reach a settlement without having to go to court…
Cut 7 (11) “…will go down”
Landry says he’s heard from the insurance industry that fewer lawsuits can result in lower premiums. He says most of other states have a two year prescriptive period and they see less lawsuits
Cut 8 (09) “…this math.”
Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple looks at this legislation as just part of the solution to solving the insurance crisis that’s seeing rates going up on both auto and homeowners policies. He says other insurance reform efforts are also needed
Cut 9 (10) “…of solution”
Lawmakers will be discussing a package of tort and insurance reform bills as the season goes on.
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The Lafayette Police Department was involved in the fatal shooting of a man last night. Sergeant Robin Green says officers had to use lethal force after a suspect in a domestic disturbance incident at a apartment complex tried to injure officers with his vehicle.
Cut 10 (10) “…the scene. “
Green says the suspect initially escaped apprehension when officers first approached him. He was spotted a short time later in a different location and that’s when the officer-involved shooting occurred.
Cut 11 (12) “…shooting occured.”
No officers were injured in the incident. The identity of the deceased suspect has not been released.
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Former Ruston Mayor Dan Hollingsworth, who served four terms died Monday at his home. Hollingsworth served as mayor from 1999 to 20015. Current Mayor Ronny Walker says Hollingsworth was always looking to improve Ruston and spearheaded their downtown revitalization.
Cut 12 (07) “…ever had.”
Walker says Hollingsworth, who was a father of five, was well thought of not only for his accomplishments but for his character as well.
Cut 13 (12) “…for advice.”
Hollingsworth was the brainchild of the Ruston 21 plan for capital improvements, economic development, and land-use improvements. Walker says Hollingsworth is also remembered for strengthening the town’s relationship with Louisiana Tech.
Cut 14 (07) “…the future.”
The former radio station owner and broadcaster was 89.