A wide-ranging package of new Louisiana laws approved during recent legislative sessions will officially take effect on January 1, 2026, bringing significant changes for drivers, homeowners, contractors, business owners, and anyone involved in civil litigation.

 

Lawmakers say the reforms are intended to improve public safety, reduce litigation costs, strengthen consumer protections, and modernize state regulations. Here’s what Louisiana residents should expect.

 

Hands-Free Driving Law Fully Enforced

 

Beginning January 1, Louisiana will fully enforce its expanded hands-free driving law, often referred to as the “touch law,” ending the current grace period that emphasized education and warnings.

 

Drivers will no longer be permitted to hold a mobile phone to text, scroll, browse, or interact with apps while operating a vehicle. Limited exceptions remain for emergency calls and approved hands-free navigation systems. Fines increase in school zones and construction zones, and repeat violations can result in higher penalties.

 

The goal, according to lawmakers, is to reduce distracted-driving crashes as smartphone use continues to rise statewide.

 

Expanded Tax Incentives for Home Fortification

 

Homeowners who strengthen their properties against severe weather will see expanded tax benefits beginning in 2026. Eligible improvements include upgrades designed to enhance wind resistance and structural integrity.

 

Act 404 creates a $10,000 tax credit for Louisiana homeowners who fortify their roofs. Legislators say the incentives are intended to reduce storm damage, insurance claims, and long-term recovery costs for families and insurers alike.

 

Major Change to Civil Liability Rules

 

One of the most consequential legal shifts affects how fault is assigned in personal injury lawsuits. Louisiana is moving from a pure comparative fault system to a modified comparative fault standard.

 

Under the new law, plaintiffs who are found to be 50% or less at fault may still recover damages, reduced by their share of responsibility. Plaintiffs who are found to be 51% or more at fault will be barred from recovering damages entirely.

 

Supporters say this change aligns Louisiana with many other states and may help curb insurance premiums. Critics argue it could limit recovery in cases where fault is hotly disputed.

 

Limits on Recoverable Medical Expenses

 

Another tort reform measure will limit how medical expenses are calculated in injury cases. Starting in 2026, plaintiffs may recover only the amount actually paid for medical care, rather than the higher amounts billed by healthcare providers.

 

Lawmakers contend this reflects real economic loss and will help reduce excessive verdicts. Opponents caution that it may leave injured victims under-compensated, especially those facing long-term or specialized care.

 

New Roofing Contractor Licensing Requirements

 

Residential roofing contractors will be subject to new licensing standards beginning in 2026. Roofing projects exceeding $7,500 will require the contractor to hold either a residential roofing license or a residential construction license with a roofing designation.

 

The law authorizes enforcement tools such as fines and cease-and-desist orders. State officials say the new rules are designed to protect homeowners, particularly after major storms when unlicensed or fraudulent roofing activity tends to spike.

 

Business Tax Changes for Pass-Through Entities

 

Louisiana is also revising how certain businesses are taxed. Beginning in 2026, S corporations will be more clearly treated as pass-through entities under state tax law, bringing Louisiana’s framework more in line with federal standards.

 

Some business owners may see tax savings, while others may need to revise accounting and planning strategies.

 

What Louisiana Residents Should Do Now

 

With these laws taking effect January 1, 2026, preparation is key. Drivers should familiarize themselves with the hands-free driving requirements. Homeowners considering roof upgrades should explore the new tax credit. Contractors should ensure they meet the new licensing standards. Business owners should review their tax planning. And anyone involved in personal injury litigation should understand that new rules will apply to fault and damages.

 

If you have questions about how these changes affect your rights or responsibilities under Louisiana law, speaking with a qualified attorney now can help you stay ahead of the curve.