Louisiana Senate Bill SB249

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/26
• Refer: 2/26/26
• Refer: 3/9/26
• Report Pass: 3/25/26

Caption

WILDLIFE/FISHERIES DEPT: Constitutional amendment to add two members to the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. (2/3-CA13s1(A)) (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

Summary

SB 249 proposes a constitutional amendment to expand the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission from seven members to nine members. The measure would revise Article IX, Section 7(A) of the Louisiana Constitution to reflect the larger commission and would keep the commission in the executive branch with gubernatorial appointments subject to Senate confirmation. The bill also preserves the existing structure of the commission, including staggered six-year terms for most members and a term concurrent with the governor for the remaining members. It maintains the current requirement that three members be electors of the coastal parishes and representatives of the commercial fishing and fur industries, while increasing the number of at-large members from four to six. If approved by the Legislature, the amendment would be submitted to voters at the statewide election on November 3, 2026.

Impact

If adopted by voters, SB 249 would amend the Louisiana Constitution and change the size and composition of the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. The practical effect would be to add two gubernatorial appointees to the commission, increasing representation from seven to nine members and expanding the pool of at-large members while leaving the coastal and industry representation requirements intact. Because this is a constitutional amendment, it would alter the governing framework for wildlife and fisheries oversight rather than merely changing ordinary statute.

Sentiment

Based on the bill text and available legislative context, the measure appears procedural and structural rather than controversial in substance. No committee transcript or vote record is provided, so there is no documented debate or recorded opposition in the materials available. The bill’s framing suggests a neutral or administrative intent to broaden commission membership and potentially increase representation.

Contention

The main point of potential contention is the decision to enlarge the commission and shift the balance of appointed seats, which could affect how wildlife and fisheries policy is shaped. Stakeholders tied to coastal parishes, commercial fishing, and the fur industry may focus on whether the added seats dilute or enhance their influence, while others may question whether a larger commission is necessary. However, no specific objections, amendments, or opposing arguments are included in the provided discussion materials.