In June of this year, HB575 was signed into law as Act No. 286, the new bill that will bring a statewide framework for ridesharing to Louisiana. Similar legislation has been deferred twice by the Senate Judiciary A committee in the past two years.
“Louisiana was one of just five states that did not have a clear framework to allow consistent standards for Transportation Network Companies, such as Uber and Lyft to operate in the state,” Christy Marino, Director of Advocacy and Special Programs at the Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, said. “Instead, a patchwork of inconsistent local regulations provided for some communities to have access to ridesharing while others do not.”
The ridesharing bill, backed by Houma Republican Rep. Tanner Magee, was supported by the Jefferson Chamber of Commerce through the “Let’s Geaux Louisiana” coalition, a group of organizations that advocated for statewide ridesharing regulation. “Let’s Geaux Louisiana” stands in favor of bringing ridesharing opportunities to suburban and rural communities to reduce the incidence of drunk driving, provide a larger community with access to easy transportation, and to allow the state to reap the economic benefits of the ridesharing industry.
“Benefits include increased job opportunities, a boost to tourism, more patrons for local businesses and safer streets,” Marino said.
The bill went into effect on July 1, 2019 and is being overseen by the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD).
EDUCATION
Early Childhood Education:
An overall increase of $15 million plus in new money allocated to early childhood care and education. This is the first time new money has been allocated to early education in 10 years!
Teacher Pay:
A $1,000 pay raise to teachers as well as a $39 million increase for schools to use at their discretion.
TRIAL ATTORNEY ADVERTISING
A resolution requesting the Louisiana Supreme Court and Louisiana State Bar Association to review rules governing solicitation advertising by attorneys. This resolution passed both chambers with zero opposition!
Leading into the upcoming races and the 2020 legislative session, discussion was elevated on infrastructure, early care education and tort reform.
SCR37 by Representative Gerald Long
TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE
An allocation of $700 million to fund 10 key infrastructure projects throughout the state. Using funds diverted out of the BP Oil Spill money, this is the biggest investment in roads and bridges in more than three decades.
HB578 by Representative Tanner Magee
RIDE SHARING
The passage of this bill provides a framework for ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft. Not only will this bill help to further connect local communities, but it will also have an impact in reducing instances of driving under the influence.
HB575 By Representative Tanner MageeMagee
