Louisiana HB398 limits state payments for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses for public officials and employees to rates set by the U.S.

Louisiana HB398 establishes that state agencies and entities cannot pay more for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses for public officials and employees than the rates set by the U.S. General Services Administration. This applies to the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Reimbursements for expenses incurred before July 1, 2026, but submitted afterward, must follow the rate in effect at the time the expense was incurred. An exception allows reimbursement at the full recommended lodging rate if it is cheaper than commuting, even if it exceeds the U.S.

Louisiana HB398 limits state payments for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses for public officials and employees to rates set by the U.S.

Louisiana HB398 establishes that state agencies and entities cannot pay more for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses for public officials and employees than the rates set by the U.S. General Services Administration. This applies to the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Reimbursements for expenses incurred before July 1, 2026, but submitted afterward, must follow the rate in effect at the time the expense was incurred. An exception allows reimbursement at the full recommended lodging rate if it is cheaper than commuting, even if it exceeds the U.S.