Committee expands liability shield to include ammunition makers; HB 289 moved forward with amendments

House Bill 289, which extends civil‑liability protections to include ammunition manufacturers and distributors in addition to firearms manufacturers and sellers, was reported with amendments by the House committee on May 6.

Representative Carrier, the bill’s sponsor, framed the measure as a business‑protection and fairness bill, saying litigation in other states has targeted the firearms industry with suits intended to “bankrupt the firearms industry.” Carrier said extending protections to ammunition makers and distributors fills a perceived gap in existing law.

Kelby Senior, state director for the National Rifle Association, testified in support, saying the expansion would protect lawful commerce and encourage businesses to operate in Louisiana. Representative Romero, speaking as a committee member, also supported the bill as pro‑business.

The committee adopted a technical amendment (amendment set 1990) and removed a clause that would have precluded actions outright, adjusting the drafting for consistency. Representative Edmondson moved the bill forward and the committee proceeded to a recorded voice roll call; staff recorded a tally of 10 yes and 2 no on the motion to report HB 289 with amendments. The committee reported the bill for further consideration.

The hearing did not include detailed testimony from opponents; committee discussion focused on drafting consistency and business impacts. No committee action created new civil law beyond the committee report; the measure will proceed to the next legislative stage with amendments adopted by the committee.