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HB 135

SEIZURES/SALES: Provides relative to certain exemptions from seizure with respect to motor vehicles

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mandie Landry and 1 co-sponsor

HB 135 shields certain motor vehicles from seizure in Louisiana, protecting essential transportation from debt collection and court judgments to preserve economic stability.

Effective date: 08/01/2026.
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Bill Summary · HB 135

Legislative bill overview

HB 135 establishes exemptions from vehicle seizure in Louisiana, protecting certain motor vehicles from being taken in legal proceedings such as debt collection or civil judgments. The bill likely carves out protections for vehicles that are essential to individuals' livelihoods or basic transportation needs, similar to homestead exemptions that exist in other contexts.

Why is this important

Vehicle seizure can devastate low-income families who depend on cars for employment, childcare transportation, or medical access. Exemptions ensure that debt collection or court judgments don't strip away assets necessary for economic stability and basic functioning. This directly affects thousands of Louisianans facing financial hardship or legal claims.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of exemption: How much vehicle equity or how many vehicles qualify for protection—narrow exemptions help creditors recover debts, while broad ones may shield assets from legitimate claims
  • Definition of "essential vehicle": Disputes may arise over whether a vehicle is truly necessary for work/survival versus a discretionary asset, particularly for multiple-vehicle households
  • Creditor impact: Lenders and debt collectors may argue exemptions reduce their ability to recover legitimate debts, potentially raising borrowing costs or limiting credit access

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

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