Plaquemines Parish residents file class action lawsuit against operators of Belle Chasse Bridge
Plaquemines Parish residents filed a class action lawsuit alleging illegal toll and fee collection on the Belle Chasse Bridge.Summary
A class action lawsuit has been filed by residents of Plaquemines Parish against the operators of the Belle Chasse Bridge, accusing them of illegally collecting millions of dollars in unauthorized tolls and $25 administrative fees. Attorney Leo Palazzo, representing the plaintiffs, claims these fees were never approved by the state. The lawsuit names Plenary Infrastructure, Belle Chasse, LLC; Plenary Louisiana Tolling, LLC; Kapsch Trafficom USA, Inc.; and the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development as defendants. Palazzo stated, “This isn’t just about a few bad bills — it’s about fairness,” emphasizing the need for government contractors to return overcharged funds. The suit alleges over 200,000 $25 fees were charged, totaling nearly $5.8 million as of September 2025. Following resident complaints, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry suspended tolls in October. The plaintiffs seek class action certification, full reimbursement of tolls and fees, and a judicial declaration that the charges violated Louisiana law and public policy.
(Source：WDSU)