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A slate of new Louisiana laws officially took effect on July 1, bringing a range of changes designed to tackle pressing issues across the state, from high insurance costs to voting accessibility and education standards.

Several of the new laws aim to address Louisiana’s long-standing struggle with high insurance premiums for both homeowners and drivers. A key piece of legislation seeks to reduce auto insurance rates by cracking down on distracted driving. Under the new law, motorists must put down their phones while driving. The goal is to lower accident rates and, in turn, premiums by reducing distractions behind the wheel.

In another shift that affects insurance payouts, individuals injured in a car wreck must now prove their injuries before receiving compensation from an insurance company. Lawmakers say this change is intended to curb fraudulent claims and help control rising costs.

Homeowners may also find relief through the Fortified Roof Program, a new initiative designed to help residents strengthen their homes against storm damage. The law allows qualified homeowners to receive financial assistance to retrofit their roofs, potentially improving property resilience and lowering insurance premiums.

Additionally, insurance companies are now required to notify the state of any changes in how or where they are writing policies adding a layer of transparency in an industry that many Louisianians have found confusing and frustrating in the wake of recent hurricane seasons.

The state has also enacted new legislation affecting elections. The Secretary of State must now inform voters of any changes to polling locations, a move aimed at improving voter awareness and access. Also clarified are the rules around who may serve as a witness when an absentee ballot is being filled out, with the goal of maintaining election integrity while ensuring voter confidence.

Law enforcement agencies have gained new authority when it comes to drone activity. If officers witness a drone being operated in a suspicious or unlawful manner, they now have the power to disable or take down the device. This new law reflects growing concerns over privacy, safety, and the use of unmanned aerial systems in both public and restricted areas.

In response to increasing concerns over children’s online safety, Louisiana has enacted new protections for minors regarding data privacy and advertising on major social media platforms. The law aims to shield young users from targeted advertising and excessive data collection, pushing for greater accountability from tech companies operating in the state.

On the education front, new legislation requires high school counselors to play a more active role in guiding students toward graduation. Counselors must now ensure that students are taking the correct courses necessary to earn a diploma, helping prevent scheduling gaps that could delay or jeopardize graduation for Louisiana’s high schoolers.

These newly enacted laws reflect a comprehensive effort by Louisiana lawmakers to respond to resident concerns and modern-day challenges. From roads and rooftops to classrooms and cyberspace, the changes are expected to have a wide-reaching impact across the state.