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HB 1167

HIGHWAYS: Designates certain portions of structures in Louisiana

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Brian Glorioso

HB 1167 designates two roadway segments in Louisiana as memorials and requires local/private funding to cover DOTD signage costs for installation.

Effective date: 08/01/2026.
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Bill Summary · HB 1167

Bill Summary: HB 1167 (2026) – Louisiana

Overview

  • Jurisdiction: Louisiana
  • Session: 2026
  • Committee/Status: As of amendments, referred to Transportation, Highways and Public Works; amendments adopted by the committee; scheduled floor debate.
  • Sponsor: Rep. Glorioso (co-sponsor: Brian Glorioso)

Main Purpose and Intent

HB 1167 designates two specific segments of Louisiana roadways as named memorials:
1. The elevated portion of Louisiana Highway 433 in Slidell, from Dubee Pena Road to Rivet Drive, designated as the “Emile 'Uncle Tobe' Galatas Memorial Bridge.”
2. A portion of U.S. Highway 11 in Pearl River, from the Dr. T.J. Smith, Sr. Expressway to Louisiana Highway 41, designated as the “Captain Steven Gaudet, Jr. Memorial Highway.”

The bill also requires the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) to install and maintain signage reflecting these designations, contingent on local or private funding covering the actual costs.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Designation of Names:
    • Elevation on LA 433 (Slidell): “Emile 'Uncle Tobe' Galatas Memorial Bridge.”
    • Portion of US 11 (Pearl River): “Captain Steven Gaudet, Jr. Memorial Highway.”
  • Signage Funding and Installation:
    • DOTD must erect and maintain appropriate signage for the designations.
    • Funding condition: Local or private funds must be provided to cover the actual costs of signage-related items, including material, fabrication, mounting posts, and installation.
    • Cost limits specified:
    • Up to $750 per sign for the “Emile 'Uncle Tobe' Galatas Memorial Bridge.”
    • Up to $2,250 per sign for the “Captain Steven Gaudet, Jr. Memorial Highway.”

Affected Parties

  • Public Infrastructure: DOTD responsible for signage installation and upkeep.
  • Local/Private Funders: Required to provide funds equal to the actual costs of signage to enable the designation.
  • Public Communal Impact: Commemorates individuals connected to the local area and may influence local historical recognition and community identity.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Amendments Adopted (April 2026): The committee added the word “Memorial” to the Emile Galatas designation, clarifying the full official name.
  • Action History:
    • Referred to committee on March 31, 2026.
    • Reported with amendments (15-0) on April 13, 2026.
    • Floor scheduling noted for April 20, 2026.
  • Implementation Timing: The bill does not specify a separate effective date beyond standard enactment; signage would be installed after funding is provided and approved.

Notes

  • The bill relies on local/private funding for signage costs; state funds are not appropriated for the signage itself beyond the requirement to install once funding is secured.
  • The designations are limited to the named roadway segments and do not affect other transportation policy, funding, or highway designations outside these segments.

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

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