Senate Bill No. 177, introduced by Senator Allain, aims to amend and reenact several provisions of Louisiana's automobile insurance laws, specifically R.S. 22:1261, 1281, 1282, 1283(A), 1284(A), 1285, 1288(A), 1289, 1289.1, and 1292(A) and (B). The bill includes technical changes to existing regulations regarding the renewal of automobile insurance policies, the standardization of insurance forms, and the requirements for motorcycle endorsements. It also reinforces protections against premium increases based on nonfault incidents, age discrimination, and discrimination against individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as those who are paid or volunteer firemen.

Key provisions of the bill include prohibiting insurers from increasing premiums or refusing to issue or renew policies based on the insured's age, disability, or activities as a fireman. Additionally, it ensures that insurers cannot deny coverage for newly purchased vehicles based solely on impending weather conditions, such as named storms. The bill also clarifies that insurers cannot assume legal title to a vehicle without taking on the associated credit obligations for towing and storage fees. The proposed changes are set to take effect on August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB177 Original: 22:1283(A), 22:1284(A), 22:1288(A), 22:1292(A)