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HB 436

CIVIL/LAW: Prohibits recovery of certain damages for unauthorized aliens

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kathy Edmonston and 1 co-sponsor

Louisiana law restricts unauthorized immigrants from recovering certain civil damages, limiting legal remedies available to undocumented workers regardless of case merit.

Signed by the President of the Senate.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 436

Legislative bill overview

HB 436 prohibits individuals without legal authorization to work in the United States from recovering certain damages in civil lawsuits in Louisiana. The bill restricts the types of compensation unauthorized aliens can claim in legal proceedings, effectively limiting their ability to pursue certain civil remedies regardless of the merits of their case.

Why is this important

This law directly affects the legal rights of undocumented immigrants in Louisiana by reducing their access to the civil justice system. It creates a category of people with diminished legal protections, which has practical implications for workplace injuries, contract disputes, discrimination claims, and other civil matters where damages would normally be recoverable.

Potential points of contention

  • Due process concerns: Restricting remedies based on immigration status may conflict with constitutional equal protection principles and access to courts
  • Employer exploitation: Undocumented workers may become targets for wage theft and unsafe working conditions if employers know victims cannot recover full damages
  • Enforcement ambiguity: The bill's implementation raises questions about how immigration status is verified, who bears that burden, and potential litigation costs
  • Definition scope: Unclear which specific damages are prohibited (lost wages, pain and suffering, punitive damages, etc.) creates legal uncertainty
  • Broader equity issues: Creates a two-tiered civil justice system where legal remedies depend on immigration status rather than the validity of claims

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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