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HB 345

RAILROADS: Provides with respect to the Rail Infrastructure Improvement Program (EN NO IMPACT See Note)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dixon McMakin

Adds rail infrastructure at ports as eligible projects under the Class II and III Rail Infrastructure Improvement Program.

Effective date: 08/01/2026.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 345

Summary of HB 345 (Louisiana, 2026 Regular Session)

Basic Information

  • Bill: HB 345
  • Sponsor: Representative McMakin (Co-sponsor: Dixon McMakin)
  • Jurisdiction: Louisiana
  • Committee/Session: 2026 Regular Session
  • Status (as of provided text): Reported favorably; scheduled for floor debate on 04/20/2026

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill amends the Class II and III Rail Infrastructure Improvement Program to expand the scope of eligible projects.
  • Specifically, it adds rail infrastructure at ports as an eligible project under the program.

Key Provisions

  • Existing framework retained: The Class II and III Rail Infrastructure Improvement Program continues to be available to Class II and III railroads for rail improvement needs to maintain efficient rail service and to implement recommendations from:
    • Louisiana Freight Mobility Plan
    • State Rail Plan
  • New eligible project category: Adds “rail infrastructure at ports” to the list of eligible projects under the program.
  • Legal change: Adds a new subitem to the statute, specifically creating R.S. 48:388.1(A)(2)(f) to codify this addition.

What is Affected

  • Railways: Class II and III railroads in Louisiana.
  • Port-related infrastructure: Rail infrastructure located at ports that supports port operations and freight movement.
  • State planning alignment: Projects still must align with the Louisiana Freight Mobility Plan and the State Rail Plan.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Code change: Enacts the new eligibility category by adding R.S. 48:388.1(A)(2)(f).
  • Enactment process: The bill has progressed through committee reviews and is slated for floor debate in April 2026 according to the action history.
  • Effective date: Not stated in the provided text; typical enactment would follow standard legislative process after passage and signature.

Potential Impact

  • Broader funding eligibility: Ports seeking rail infrastructure improvements can pursue funding through the Rail Infrastructure Improvement Program, potentially accelerating port-rail connectivity projects.
  • Port-rail efficiency: Improved rail infrastructure at ports can enhance freight movement efficiency, reduce congestion, and support economic activity dependent on port facilities.
  • Implementation alignment: Projects funded would remain subject to guidance and recommendations within the Louisiana Freight Mobility Plan and State Rail Plan.

If you’d like, I can provide a brief comparison to current program eligibility or draft a plain-language summary for distribution to stakeholders.

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

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