During the 2025 Louisiana legislative session, State Representative Gabe Firment played a key role in advancing significant insurance reform. As Chair of the House Insurance Committee, Firment helped pass several impactful bills aimed at improving the claims process, increasing accountability for insurers, and protecting consumers.One major accomplishment was House Bill 437, which became law without the governor’s signature. It increases penalties for insurers who delay payments for rental vehicles or repairs and introduces a standardized “proof of loss” form for property claims. This aims to reduce ambiguity and streamline the claims process, especially after disasters like the 2016 Baton Rouge flood.

Firment also authored House Bill 436, now Act 17, which prohibits undocumented immigrants involved in car accidents from claiming general damages or lost wages. While controversial, Firment argued it was a common-sense measure to prevent ineligible wage claims.

Another key bill, House Bill 438 (now Act 85), prevents insurance companies from using institutional advertising expenses to justify rate increases. This consumer-friendly reform is part of a broader effort to ensure transparency and fairness in rate-setting.

Firment’s legislative package was part of a larger push by the state to address Louisiana’s insurance crisis. While not all proposed reforms passed, Firment gave the session a solid “B” grade, citing historic progress on insurance reform. He also praised the legislature’s work on the state budget, especially in light of challenges following the failure of a constitutional amendment.Additionally, Firment sponsored House Bill 176, which bans the sale of hallucinogenic mushroom derivatives disguised as candy, a response to alarming incidents involving children.Overall, Firment’s efforts reflect a balanced approach to reform—targeting both insurers and legal loopholes—while aiming to protect consumers and stabilize Louisiana’s insurance market.