Technology

HB 617 requires businesses to clearly display the total price - including all mandatory fees or surcharges - before a consumer makes a purchase or booking. It directly affects all businesses selling goods or services to consumers, including restaurants, ride-share apps, and online platforms. Key provisions mandate that businesses disclose factors determining final prices (like distance or time), mandatory fees, and that costs may vary, all in clear, conspicuous language at the point of sale or advertising. Exemptions include businesses already complying with federal rules for broadband, cable, satellite, and live-event ticket pricing. The bill does not ban fees but ensures consumers see the full cost upfront, avoiding hidden charges.

HB 897 protects patient healthcare data for participants in Louisiana's Pregnancy and Baby Care Initiative. It requires healthcare providers (general contractors and subcontractors) to obtain written consent before sharing any identifiable health information, provide clear privacy notices explaining what data will be shared and with whom, and offer an easy way for patients to revoke consent. Providers must also give patients free access to their records within 10 business days. Violations could lead to contract termination by the Department of Children and Family Services, following standard state procedures.

This resolution from the Louisiana House of Representatives asks the U.S. Congress to reform the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act and the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court. It calls for repealing and rewriting the USA Patriot Act to limit warrantless searches and investigations of American citizens. The bill seeks to restore privacy rights and Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches and seizures. It also urges state officials to uphold constitutional rights and avoid participating in any violations of citizens' rights.

HB 190 establishes a legal duty for software creators and sellers in Louisiana to exercise "reasonable care" when designing, developing, licensing, manufacturing, or selling interactive software that uses user data for personalized experiences. This directly affects tech companies operating in Louisiana that produce such software. The bill sets a specific standard of care for these activities but clarifies it does not replace existing liability laws like the Louisiana Products Liability Act. It focuses on defining responsibility for software design and data use, without creating new causes of action.