Louisiana recently enacted major changes to its workers’ compensation system to protect local businesses and prevent system abuse. Representative Emily Chenevert and workers’ compensation attorney Trent Oube recently discussed how House Bill 456—now officially Act 648—restores critical legal rights to employers across the state.
Addressing the Loophole in Workers’ Compensation
Prior to Act 648, a 2010 law restricted an employer’s right to file a lawsuit or conduct discovery unless appealing a medical director’s decision or alleging outright fraud. This created a major legal bottleneck. Employers faced statutory penalties for failing to investigate claims thoroughly, yet lacked the subpoena power necessary to obtain medical records or conduct depositions when claimants or providers refused to cooperate.
Act 648 eliminates this Catch-22 by restoring an employer’s constitutional due process rights to initiate formal discovery through the court system.
Protecting Injured Workers While Preventing Fraud
Representative Emily Chenevert emphasized that the reform does not cut off or reduce legitimate benefits for injured workers. Instead, it equips businesses with the tools needed to investigate questionable claims, address potential fraud, and reduce unnecessary delays.
“We want injured workers to get healthy and return to work,” Chenevert stated during the broadcast. “However, businesses must have an option when red flags arise.”
Attorney Trent Oube noted that long claim durations have historically made Louisiana one of the most expensive states for business insurance. By allowing earlier access to medical records and depositions, Act 648 promises to shorten dispute resolution timelines, clear legitimate claims faster, and deter fraudulent activity.
A More Competitive Business Climate for Louisiana
State leaders view Act 648 as a vital step toward creating a fair, predictable environment for major industrial investments and local business growth. The law officially went into effect on August 1, 2026, and employers are already utilizing its provisions to ensure a fair resolution for all parties.