State Representative Mike Melerine joins the show to discuss recent legislative efforts focused on insurance reform in Louisiana. A key achievement was the passage of the "Housley presumption" bill, originally introduced by Richard Nelson in 2021. This law shifts the burden of proof in injury claims back to the plaintiff, reversing a previous Supreme Court decision that had placed the burden on defendants. Melerine emphasized that this change restores fairness by requiring those making allegations to prove them.

The session also saw the passage of several other insurance-related bills, including Rep. Dewitz’s “no pay, no play” bill, Rep. Schamerhorn’s comparative fault reform, and Senator Reese’s medical transparency bill. While these measures represent significant progress—likened to hitting a double in baseball—Melerine noted that they don’t fully resolve the state’s insurance challenges. For example, Reese’s bill doesn’t address issues with cash-pay medical scenarios, prompting a study resolution by Rep. Carlson.

A major concern remains with HB 148, which includes provisions that could potentially expose proprietary insurance rate-setting formulas. This has raised alarms among insurers, who fear losing competitive advantages and possibly exiting the Louisiana market, especially in the commercial auto sector. Melerine stressed the importance of maintaining insurer confidence to avoid undoing recent reforms.

Looking ahead, Melerine anticipates minor legislative tweaks rather than major overhauls, as many reforms won’t take effect until 2026 and their impact may not be fully visible until 2030. He acknowledged the challenge of managing public expectations in the interim, especially amid ongoing high insurance premiums. Nonetheless, he remains hopeful that the groundwork laid this session will lead to long-term improvements in Louisiana’s insurance landscape.