With just two weeks remaining in Louisiana’s legislative session, Governor Jeff Landry joined Brian Haldane on the air to provide a progress report—and he came bearing news of significant accomplishments.
Landry described the session as an “A+” effort, citing a historic milestone: the largest tort reform in Louisiana’s history, signed into law even before the session’s end. “Over the last 14 months, we have done more than any governor or legislature has done in their entire terms,” Landry said, emphasizing the administration’s focus on reducing the state’s high insurance costs.
A key component of this reform is aimed at curbing the frequency of small injury claims, which are double the national average in Louisiana. New legislation shifts the burden of proof to plaintiffs to demonstrate that injuries occurred during an accident, not before. Additionally, uninsured drivers who sue after an accident will forfeit the first $100,000 of any award, a move Landry believes will significantly reduce frivolous claims.
Looking ahead, Landry expressed optimism about passing a medical transparency bill—one he vetoed last year in hopes of crafting a stronger version. He praised the current proposal for aligning with findings from a 2020 legislative report and for taking a more balanced approach to insurance reform.
While acknowledging that not every goal has been achieved, Landry emphasized the importance of what has been accomplished. “It’s not what we may not have gotten—it’s the things that we did get,” he said, pointing to data-backed reforms that he believes will ultimately lower premiums.
As for when policyholders might see relief, Landry was cautious. While some lawmakers estimate a 12–18 month timeline, he stressed that the pace of change will depend on how insurance companies respond to the new regulatory environment.
Listen to “Gov. Jeff Landry’s Session Progress Report” on Spreaker.