HB 715 requires licensed aerial applicators (those applying seeds, fertilizers, or pesticides) to carry federally compliant transponders (like ADS-B Out systems) and operable two-way radios when using publicly owned airports or participating in airport priority programs, specifically during takeoff and landing. This applies to all aerial applicators operating at public airports within Louisiana, with the equipment mandated for public safety and coordination of airport traffic. The bill also prohibits political subdivisions from discriminating against licensed aerial applicators using public airports and directs the Department of Agriculture and Forestry to inspect for chemical residue concerns. It does not alter existing airport safety rules but adds these communication and tracking requirements for aerial operations.
HB 429 adds theft or unauthorized entry of oil and gas facilities - including drilling, production, transportation, and storage equipment - as a specific act that qualifies as terrorism under Louisiana law. It directly affects individuals who steal or trespass at these facilities by making such acts punishable as terrorism, not just theft. The bill defines "critical infrastructure" to explicitly include oil and gas operations and sets a minimum 20-year prison sentence for terrorism convictions involving these facilities. This amendment changes the legal classification of such crimes, increasing penalties for offenses previously treated as theft.
This bill directs the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development to investigate recent flooding on Highway 1 in Shreveport and includes the Caddo Parish Office of Homeland Security in the study. It requires that the findings from this investigation be added to the state's Flood Control Program. The legislation is a formal request rather than a law that mandates specific construction or funding changes.
This bill is a concurrent resolution that asks the Port of New Orleans to purchase extra backup motors for the St. Claude Avenue Bridge. The measure addresses past problems where burned-out motors caused extended bridge closures, which have led to traffic jams and disrupted travel between Orleans and Saint Bernard parishes. By securing spare parts, the Port would be able to replace failed equipment more quickly and restore bridge operations without long delays. The resolution does not mandate any action but formally urges the Port to take steps to improve the bridge's reliability and reduce traffic disruptions for residents and commuters.
HB 868 requires all trailers and semi-trailers under 6,000 pounds gross weight (when being towed) to have safety chains or approved safety devices securely attached to the towing vehicle. These chains must be strong enough to hold the trailer if the primary hitch connection fails, eliminating previous exemptions for farm equipment and other trailers. The law directly affects all drivers towing such trailers on Louisiana highways, mandating specific safety standards to prevent accidents from detached trailers. It updates existing vehicle safety regulations by specifying chain strength and attachment requirements under Louisiana law.
This resolution asks Louisiana's Department of Transportation and Development to investigate whether closing one of several nearby on-ramps to eastbound US Route 90 Business in New Orleans could reduce traffic congestion during weekday peak hours from 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The study will evaluate if limiting access during these times improves traffic flow and public safety without disrupting the corridor that connects downtown New Orleans to the West Bank. If the investigation finds a viable option, the department must submit a written report with its findings to the House Committee on Transportation, Highways and Public Works by March 1, 2027.
This resolution asks the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development to study whether it is feasible to create a program for regularly cleaning and maintaining interstate highway signs instead of simply replacing them when they are damaged. The proposal highlights that routine maintenance is significantly cheaper than replacement and could extend the lifespan of signs while improving driver safety and navigation. If the study finds the program viable, the department would be required to submit a report detailing its findings to the House Committee on Transportation by January 1, 2027.
This resolution asks Louisiana's Department of Transportation and Development to study how to improve toll operations at the state's three major bridges. The study will specifically look at creating consistent toll signs, establishing a clear process for handling customer complaints, and setting up local service centers to help drivers and businesses. While the bill does not change current toll rates or laws, it directs the department to report back by February 2027 with recommendations on making these services more uniform and accessible.
This resolution asks the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development to talk with specific railroad companies about fixing abandoned and unsafe railroad tracks in several northwest Louisiana parishes. The bill highlights that old tracks and ties create hazards like tripping risks and soil contamination from chemicals, urging officials to work with local governments to remove or clean up these sites. The department must share contact information with local authorities and report its progress to the House Transportation Committee by January 1, 2027.
HB 492 creates the Governor's Task Force on Impaired Driving to coordinate state efforts against drunk and drugged driving. The task force, operating within the governor's office, will include 21 members from state agencies (like law enforcement and health departments), community organizations (such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving), and at least one victim or family member of an impaired driving incident. Its key duties include analyzing data on impaired driving arrests and crashes, identifying evidence-based solutions like ignition interlock devices, and coordinating strategies across state and local agencies. The task force must meet at least four times yearly, with decisions requiring majority approval, and will be chaired by the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission director.
