Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HR223

Introduced
4/30/26  
Introduced
5/5/26  
Refer
5/6/26  
Report Pass
5/13/26  

Caption

MARKETING/PROMOTION: Urges and requests the city of Shreveport to partner with certain enumerated entities to advance the Southern Soul City initiative

Impact

The Southern Soul City initiative aligns with broader goals of enhancing Shreveport's economic framework by leveraging its rich musical heritage. This resolution not only aims to elevate the profile of Southern Soul music but also to create a comprehensive marketing strategy that will attract visitors, thereby generating revenue for local businesses. Initiatives like creating a Southern Soul museum, establishing a recording academy, and setting up local exhibitions are planned to solidify Shreveport's place in the cultural and economic landscape of Louisiana.

Summary

House Resolution 223 urges and requests the city of Shreveport to collaborate with various organizations to advance the Southern Soul City initiative. This initiative aims to recognize Shreveport as the capital of Southern Soul music, fostering tourism and economic growth through the promotion of this unique musical genre, which combines elements of blues, gospel, and rock. The city recognizes the significance of the Southern Soul music festival as both a cultural event and an economic driver, highlighting the contributions of local businesses in the hospitality and entertainment sectors.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR223 appears broadly positive among local stakeholders who view it as a valuable opportunity to celebrate Shreveport's cultural identity while promoting economic revitalization. Community leaders and local businesses express optimism that the initiative will enhance tourism and business opportunities in the area. However, there may be concerns from residents about whether the focus on tourism could dilute the authenticity of the local culture or benefit long-standing residents.

Contention

While HR223 enjoys widespread support, a point of contention may arise regarding the management of resources allocated to develop the Southern Soul initiative. Some members of the community might question the disproportionate focus on tourism and entertainment over other pressing local needs such as infrastructure improvements, education, or healthcare. Balancing this initiative with the diverse needs of the community will be critical as Shreveport seeks to implement these ambitious plans for fostering economic growth through cultural recognition.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA SR84

Designates May 9, 2025, as AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Volunteer Day and commends the AmeriCorps Southern University at Shreveport (SUSLA) Caddo/Bossier/DeSoto Foster Grandparent Volunteer Program for 45 years of service.

LA HR128

Designates May 9, 2025, as AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Volunteer Day and commends the AmeriCorps Seniors Southern University at Shreveport Foster Grandparent Volunteer Program for forty-five years of service

LA HR293

Commends Marvelle "Hot Boy Yoshi" Brown on his accomplishments in music, media, and marketing

LA HR69

Designates May 9, 2025, as AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Volunteer Day and commends the AmeriCorps Seniors Southern University at Shreveport Caddo/Bossier/DeSoto Foster Grandparent Volunteer Program for forty-five years of service

LA HR301

Commends the late Major General James W. Graves, for his service to the United States of America, the state of Louisiana, and Shreveport-Bossier City

LA HR35

Commends Southern University on the occasion of its one hundred forty-fifth anniversary and designates April 22, 2025, as Southern University Day at the state capitol

LA SR192

Requests the Senate Committee on Judiciary B to study recent technological advancements regarding lotteries and determine whether such advancements conform with Louisiana law.

LA HR381

Creates the Clean Water Task Force to study the public water system in Shreveport

LA SR33

Recognizes April 22, 2025, as Southern University Day at the capitol.

LA HR303

Urges and requests the Department of Transportation and Development assume and reassign duties and responsibilities for the construction of the I-49 Inner-City Connector project

Similar Bills

LA HR222

Designates the city of Shreveport as the Southern Soul City

LA SR84

Designates May 9, 2025, as AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Volunteer Day and commends the AmeriCorps Southern University at Shreveport (SUSLA) Caddo/Bossier/DeSoto Foster Grandparent Volunteer Program for 45 years of service.

LA HR128

Designates May 9, 2025, as AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Volunteer Day and commends the AmeriCorps Seniors Southern University at Shreveport Foster Grandparent Volunteer Program for forty-five years of service

LA HR69

Designates May 9, 2025, as AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Volunteer Day and commends the AmeriCorps Seniors Southern University at Shreveport Caddo/Bossier/DeSoto Foster Grandparent Volunteer Program for forty-five years of service

LA HR172

Commends AmeriCorps Seniors Southern University at Shreveport Caddo/Bossier Foster Grandparent Volunteer Program on forty-six years of service to children and designates May 1, 2026, as AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Volunteer Day in Louisiana

LA HR100

Expresses the condolences of the House of Representatives on the death of Ayodele "Ayo" Edith Anderson

LA SR68

Recognizes Friday, May 1, 2026, as AmeriCorps Seniors Southern University at Shreveport Foster Grandparent Volunteer Day.

LA HR77

Designates April 28, 2025, as Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Day at the state capitol