NFIB State Director Leah Long today urged the state Senate Judiciary A Committee to advance H.B. 437, legislation would help bring more transparency and fairness to Louisiana’s civil court system.

The bill would prevent witnesses with a financial stake in the outcome of a case from being qualified as expert witnesses in most civil proceedings. It would also require greater disclosure of financial arrangements tied to expert testimony.

“Small business owners want a legal system that is fair, transparent, and based on facts, not a witness’ financial interest,” Long said. “When expert witnesses stand to profit from the outcome of a case, it raises legitimate questions about impartiality.

“House Bill 437 would help restore confidence in the civil justice system and protect Louisiana’s small businesses from unfair litigation costs,” she said.

Lawsuit abuse and rising legal expenses continue to make it harder for small business owners to grow, hire, and invest in their communities, Long said “Main Street businesses are already dealing with inflation, high insurance costs, and economic uncertainty,” she said. “This bill is a commonsense step toward creating a more balanced legal climate in Louisiana.”