Louisiana Lawmakers Reject Homeowners Insurance Relief Bills

In the final days of the 2025 Louisiana legislative session, lawmakers stalled two key insurance bills designed to provide relief to homeowners facing some of the highest insurance premiums in the nation. Senate Bill 235, sponsored by Sen. Royce Duplessis, would have offered a tax credit of up to $2,000 for homeowners earning no more than 200% of the federal poverty level, but it was narrowly defeated in the House amid Republican opposition concerned about long-term costs and potential impacts on insurance rates. House Bill 356, which aimed to allow homeowners without mortgages to purchase lower-cost "stated value" insurance policies, was weakened by Senate amendments changing mandatory insurer obligations to optional, significantly diluting its effectiveness. Critics argue that the failure to pass these reforms leaves homeowners with little relief from rising premiums, despite bipartisan support and public pressure. Lawmakers expressed frustration that while the insurance industry received favorable legislation, direct assistance to struggling homeowners was blocked, signaling ongoing challenges in addressing Louisiana's insurance crisis. Advocates like Duplessis and Rep. Mandie Landry emphasized the urgent need for meaningful action to help vulnerable residents maintain homeownership amid escalating costs.