In regard to a contractor outside of Louisiana operating in the state in association with rebuilding efforts after Hurricanes Katrina or Rita, there is no need for the workers' compensation insurer to be licensed in Louisiana if the contract is negotiated entirely outside of Louisiana. La. R.S. 22:1249.1C(6) provides that contracts negotiated outside of the state and covering risks in this state are not subject to the licensing requirements. Please note that workers' compensation claims coverage is specifically incorporated into this phrase.

In addition, I have been advised that our Deputy Commissioner has spoken with Karen Winfrey of the Office of Workers Compensation (225-342-7555) and she has confirmed that there is no prohibition to this matter from that Department.