Capitol idea: The Louisiana Senate decided Monday that courts should postpone any slander lawsuits filed against people who allege they’ve been sexually assaulted. Sen. J.P. Morrell, the New Orleans Democrat who sponsored the bill, said wealthy perpetrators of sexual misconduct often use defamation lawsuits to try to prevent rape victims from being able to move forward with assault claims. His proposal would require the delay of a slander lawsuit until all investigations and proceedings involving the assault claim are resolved. The Senate voted 29-8 to send the bill to the House for debate. Read more.
Under contract: American Ethane, a company co-founded and headed by New Orleans-based attorney John W. Houghtaling, has signed an exclusive agreement with The Energy & Minerals Groups, a private equity firm that will supply up to 480,000 barrels per day of ethane to AE’s planned export terminal on the Texas Gulf Coast. Under the agreement, EMG will create a portfolio company to source and supply an AE terminal from various U.S. midstream companies and producers. EMG also will construct new export facilities or partner with other operators to expand existing export facilities and associated midstream supply infrastructure. Read more.
Down the tracks: Union Pacific Railroad plans to spend $87 million on its transportation infrastructure in Louisiana this year. The company says the private investment is just a part of some $3.3 billion it will spend on its U.S. network this year to enhance safety, operating efficiency and support customer service. The company’s investment in Louisiana covers a range of initiatives, including $48 million to maintain railroad tracks and $18 million to maintain bridges. Read more.
