LA SB235

Public entities are prohibited from withholding contested liquidated damages from payments owed to contractors, though entities retain the right to pursue liquidated damage claims separately

Contractors can seek mandamus proceedings to compel payment of amounts due under public works contracts, now explicitly including attorney fees and accumulated interest (0.5% daily, capped at 15%)

Public entity claims for liquidated damages cannot be addressed through mandamus proceedings, separating payment disputes from damage claims

These payment provisions cannot be waived by contract terms

Effective upon governor's signature or expiration of time for gubernatorial action