Representative Patrick C. Williams set the standard as a newly elected representative in the 2007 session.  He authored and co-authored a total of 79 bills in his freshman session which is unprecedented for a freshman legislator.  He was highly ranked among his peers for his unbelievable accomplishments and his willingness to fight for what he believes in.  He was also praised by Rep. Joe Salter, Speaker of the House, on his eagerness to learn and ask questions of experienced legislators.

State Representative Patrick C. Williams 2007 Legislative Review

The 2007 Regular Session of the Legislature adjourned Sine Die on Thursday, June 28, 2007.

The following is a review of some important legislation affecting the citizen of Louisiana. 

INVESTING IN OUR CHILDREN’S FUTURE 

The Legislature passed several bills aimed at improving the quality of education in Louisiana so that our children will be prepared for the new economy. These investments include the following: 

ü      Increasing teacher pay by $2,375 – in line with the Southern Regional Average 

ü      Fully funding ($2.8 billion) higher education for the first time in our state’s history 

ü      Providing $30 million to expand the state’s free pre-K education program

PROPERTY OWERS’ INSURANCE REFORM MAKES FORWARD PROGRESS 

Louisiana property owners have been hit hard over the past two years after the devastation left behind from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.  The effects of theses storms have been felt state and industry wide.  The Legislature debated ways to provide long-term relief to policyholders.  These gains include the following: 

ü      Abolishing the Insurance Rating Commission to join with other 49 states 

ü      Establishing an incentive pool to attract more insurance companies which will increase competition and make insurance more affordable and available 

ü      Giving residential homeowners a 7% tax credit based on next year’s property insurance premiums 

ü      Implementing a policyholder bill of rights 

ü      Providing premium discounts for policyholders who comply with the new statewide building code standards

INFRASTRUCTURE GETS FUNDING BOOST 

The Legislature committed surplus monies to improving existing roads, constructing new roads, expanding port capacity, improving coastal restoration, and paving the way for economic development.  These allocations include the following:

 ü      Investing $600 million in infrastructure projects – a record amount fix our crumbling roads 

ü      Committing $35 million to the Port Construction and Development Priority Program 

ü      Funding $200 million in historical investment needs for coastal restoration and flood protection 

ü      Increasing the Economic Development Fund by $150 million to attract new industries and to assist with the expansion of existing businesses

TAX RELIEF FOR FAMILIES AND SMALL BUSINESSES 

In this fiscal session, several legislative instruments were filed to provide tax cuts for families, tax credit to improve the economy, and tax relief for small business owners.  Those tax relief bills passing the Legislature include the following: 

ü      Restoring pre-Stelly itemized income tax deductions 

ü      Allowing individuals income tax deductions for certain private and parochial elementary and secondary education tuition 

ü      Establishing the annual Louisiana Sales Tax Holiday the first Friday and Saturday in August on the purchases up to $2,500 

ü      Authorizing a sales tax holiday for the purchase of certain hurricane preparedness items and supplies 

ü      Reducing sales tax on utilities for businesses 

ü      Ending the state inheritance tax and repealing the state gift tax effective in 2008

* These measures become effective unless vetoed by the Governor

Local Bills Authored and Introduced by Representative Patrick Williams 

HB627 provides additional retirement benefit to court reporters employed by Caddo Parish who are paid separately for transcriptions, computation, applicability, contributions, and related matters. (signed by Governor) 

HB636 includes the public administrator as a person who may obtain a copy of a confidential death certificate. (signed by Governor) 

HB701 provides homeowners’ with a payment of interest accrued in their escrow account with regard to the monthly payment of property insurance or property tax.  (further research needed)

HCSR11 requests the House Committee on Commerce and the Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and International Affairs to study the effects imposed on state and local banks with the implementation of interest-bearing escrow accounts 

HCR218 requests the Dept. of Transportation and Development to construct an elevated crosswalk in the 4600 block of North Market Street in Shreveport, Louisiana (filed with the Secretary of State) 

HB763 authorizes the attorney general to procure private legal services for representation of the state through contingency fee contracts in suits involving specified named drugs (withdrawn) 

 HB 933 provides for individual income tax credits for certain residential, industrial, and commercial property energy efficiency and solar energy improvements

Rep. Williams deliberating in the Commerce Committee meeting

Rep. Williams pictured with Colby Cook, Attorney for the Committee of Commerce 

Rep. Williams prepared to fight for his Constituents on the House floor

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