Video & Transcript Research : 'Orleans Parish'

Page 6 of 56
LA
Transcript Highlights:
  • my parish of St.
  • We had representatives from Orleans Parish.
  • We had representatives from Orleans Parish.
  • Natchitoches Parish is Natchitoches Parish is working to get their weight task force as is.
  • The parishes kept 8%.
Summary: The House Transportation Committee met on March 16 and first disposed of several local bills without controversy. House Bills 590, 679, and 873 were voluntarily deferred. HB 503, allowing certain utility terrain vehicles and golf carts in Golden Meadow, was amended and reported. HB 720, clarifying tacit dedication and public access to waterways and related access points, was reported favorably. HB 856, expanding indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contracting authority for DOTD and the Office of Louisiana Highway Construction, was amended and reported. HB 487, increasing penalties for drivers who run red lights by using shoulders or turn lanes to pass stopped traffic, was amended and reported. HB 846, prohibiting obscured or covered license plates, was reported favorably. HB 733 and HB 875, both dealing with OMV reinstatement fees and lapses of insurance, were reported with amendments after discussion of audit findings and fee timing. HB 707, moving liquefied petroleum gas commission functions to Agriculture, was amended and reported. HB 693, creating legislator district signs, was amended and then voluntarily deferred. HB 777, requiring a driver's license renewal knowledge exam, was amended and voluntarily deferred for further work with the department. HB 746, concerning oversized trucking permits issued by local governments, was introduced but not advanced, with the author signaling a desire to work on the issue further rather than force a vote. Several bills drew extended debate over safety, enforcement, and government overreach. HB 309, which would have penalized pedestrians for looking at cell phones while crossing crosswalks, was amended from a criminal offense to a $25 civil fine but then voluntarily deferred after members raised concerns about enforceability, tourism, free will, and whether the bill targeted the right party. HB 695, requiring permits and QR-code documentation for consensual non-commercial towing of multiple connected vehicles, was heavily questioned over how it would work in practice, whether it applied to single or multiple vehicles, and how out-of-state travelers would know about the requirement; the committee asked the author to work with OMV and State Police and voluntarily returned the bill to the calendar. HB 868, removing the farm exemption from trailer safety-chain and attachment requirements after a fatal accident involving a trailer separation, was amended and reported despite concerns from members and the Agriculture Commissioner about impacts on older farm equipment and the need to preserve flexibility for agricultural operations. The committee also heard testimony from law enforcement, the auditor’s office, the Department of Transportation and Development, the Department of Agriculture and Forestry, and industry groups. Chiefs of police supported the red-light and license-plate bills as common-sense public safety measures, while the Legislative Auditor explained that the OMV fee bills were intended to align Louisiana’s reinstatement fees and grace periods more closely with other states and with audit recommendations. DOTD and the secretary supported the procurement bill as a tool to speed construction and maintenance work. Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain supported the propane commission bill and urged caution on the farm trailer safety bill so that older and specialized equipment would not be unintentionally burdened.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

House of Representitives Mar 9th, 2026

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill by Representative Newell, Orleans Parish Spring Lake Subdivision Improvement District; taxes
  • House Bill by Representative Newell, Orleans Parish Spring Lake Subdivision Improvement District; taxes
  • Today, the state spends more than twice as much on the Orleans Parish court system as it does in our
  • And what's interesting is, unlike every other parish, we foot 100% of that bill for Orleans, 100%.
  • House Bill by Representative Mandy Landry: Sheriff, Parish of Orleans; sheriff's term of office.
Summary: The House convened with a quorum, received and accepted multiple resignation notices from members representing Districts 37, 39, 60, 69, 97, and 100, and then recognized the election and qualification of the members-elect who filled those vacancies: Doyle Boudreau, Reese Broussard, Chasity Verrett-Martinez, and Edwin Murray. Each member-elect was sworn in, and the House also appointed committees to notify the Senate and the governor that it was ready to conduct business for the 2026 regular session. The chamber then handled a large number of procedural actions related to prefiled legislation. By motion and without objection, the House suspended rules to refer prefile bills to committee and introduced a broad slate of House bills and resolutions. Topics included the state budget and appropriations, retirement system changes, carbon capture and sequestration, criminal justice and bail, public safety, education, health care, local government matters, transportation, and several memorial or commemorative resolutions. Several resolutions and bills were noted as lying over, and some prefiled bills were withdrawn from the files. The House also received a Senate message that SCR 1 had been adopted, and the resolution was taken up without objection. The chamber then recessed for a joint session with the Senate to hear the governor’s address and a presentation honoring Technical Sergeant Adam W. Brister with the Distinguished Flying Cross. In his remarks, Governor Jeff Landry highlighted his administration’s priorities, including education, tax reform, workforce development, health and nutrition, insurance reform, transportation infrastructure, fiscal discipline, and criminal justice reform, while urging support for his agenda and several related bills and constitutional amendments.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

Commerce Apr 7th, 2026

Commerce, Consumer Protection, and International Affairs

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm with Fortified Gulf Coast in Orleans Parish. I own a business in Jefferson Parish as well.
  • by parish to do it.
  • Jefferson Parish, unless I'm mistaken, does not allow fireworks in the parish.
  • So Jefferson Parish, Orleans Parish, and East Baton Rouge are all prohibited from fireworks sales, so
  • It's kind of tough to regulate fireworks in Orleans and Jefferson Parish. Thank you. Thank you, Mr.
Summary: The committee met on April 7, 2026, and first handled several fire marshal-related bills. HB 917, a licensing and regulatory cleanup for life safety and property protection work, was amended with technical changes and reported favorably. HB 565 clarified that the State Fire Marshal, rather than local authorities, would handle fire safety inspections for early learning and child daycare centers; members adopted an amendment limiting the standards to state or federal codes and addressing ventilation and suppression requirements for small facilities, and the bill was reported favorably with amendments. The committee then took up HB 937, which would shift amusement ride setup inspections back to the State Fire Marshal, require licensing and insurance for rides and inspectors, and repeal provisions related to inflatable amusement devices. The author and fire marshal cited a serious festival ride accident in Pointe Coupee Parish as the impetus, and members discussed inspection timing, insurance costs, and whether background checks or public inspection certificates should be required. After technical and agreed-upon amendments, the bill was reported favorably. HB 799, a boiler inspection consolidation bill, was presented as a cleanup measure that would centralize boiler regulation under the fire marshal and rely on licensed inspectors meeting national standards. Stakeholders from industry and the fire marshal’s office described it as an efficiency and safety measure, and the committee adopted a substantive amendment on shutdown procedures and licensing details before reporting the bill favorably. HB 461, which would have allowed parishes and municipalities to adopt fortified roof standards, drew extensive testimony both for and against; supporters argued it could improve resilience and lower insurance costs, while opponents warned it would undermine Louisiana’s uniform building code, add cost, and create inconsistency. The author ultimately moved to voluntarily defer the bill. Finally, the committee began HB 977, a bill on minors’ use of applications that would require age verification, parental consent, and app store/developer safeguards. An amendment clarified definitions, consent rules, data-sharing limits, and a good-faith compliance defense. Members raised concerns about the 45-day cure period, the lack of a private right of action, and whether app stores would become gatekeepers, but the bill remained pending at the end of the excerpt.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

State Bond Commission May 21st, 2026

Transcript Highlights:
  • Item 20 is the East Baton Rouge Parish Metropolitan Council of the Parish of East Baton Rouge and City
  • City-Parish to provide for the district's obligation to make payments to the city-parish for debt service
  • It was converted to Type 3B in 2018 under the Orleans Parish School Board, and in 2025 the charter was
  • It was converted to Type 3B in 2018 under the Orleans Parish School Ward, and in 25, the charter was
  • ; Orleans Parish School Board Vice President and District 3 Representative Olin Parker; New Orleans City
Summary: The State Bond Commission met on May 21, established a quorum, approved the April 16 minutes, and then considered a long agenda of bond, refunding, and election-related requests. Items 3 through 10 were election propositions for the November 3 ballot involving ad valorem taxes, parcel fees, and charter amendments for purposes such as fire protection, agricultural centers, neighborhood security, recreation, aging services, drainage, and roads and bridges; staff said they met technical and legal requirements, and the commission approved them. The commission also approved several local financings, including water and sewer projects, fire district equipment and facility improvements, school board and parish bonds, and refunding transactions for the East Baton Rouge City-Parish and St. James Parish School Board. A retroactive approval request from the City of Kenner related to a CEA with GMB Basketball LLC was discussed; staff made no recommendation because it was retroactive, but noted it appeared to be an oversight, and item 22, the related airport district agreement, was approved. The commission approved additional financing for the Louisiana Housing Corporation’s Federal City Building 10 affordable housing project, a preliminary approval for the Northwest Louisiana Finance Authority’s Petro Tower redevelopment in Shreveport, and two Louisiana Public Facilities Authority projects: Southern University’s Scott’s Bluff student housing project and the Crescent City Schools project for Harriet Tubman Charter School. During discussion of the Crescent City Schools financing, a commissioner asked about the use of MFP funds; staff explained that lease payments would be the repayment source and that MFP dollars are generally split between educational expenses and facilities costs, with the school’s typical split around 72% instructional and 28% administrative/facilities-related. Both items were approved. The commission then received six cost-of-issuance reports for previously approved bond issues, with various fee adjustments but no motions required. It also reviewed a debt schedule update and adopted Resolution No. 2 authorizing up to $425 million in general obligation refunding bonds to refund Series 2016 bonds and tender other outstanding bonds for savings, with pricing tentatively set for June 16 and closing for June 30. In other business, the commission heard a brief public comment from New Orleans City Council President J.P. Morrell thanking the commission for helping place a charter amendment on the ballot to improve New Orleans budgeting transparency and oversight. The meeting ended after monthly reports were noted and no further business was raised.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

Judiciary Mar 19th, 2026

Judiciary

Transcript Highlights:
  • Bernard Parish, no. Within the bounds of the parish itself.
  • Charles, Plaquemines Parish, Jefferson Parish, and Orleans Parish.
  • This would be a parish-by-parish basis.
  • We started using it at the DA's office in Orleans Parish in 2023 when we got Carissa, who is a black
  • So we need the—we need this bill because there are six judges in Orleans Parish, half the judges, if
Summary: The House Committee on Judiciary met on March 19, 2006, and considered a series of mostly local and judicial bills. Early action included HB 436, which authorizes appointment of honorably discharged veterans as park wardens; supporters said it would give veterans meaningful service roles and improve park safety. The committee adopted an amendment requiring honorable discharge, employment qualification compliance if hired by a public entity, and firearms training where applicable, then reported the bill favorably. The committee also advanced HB 16, extending the jurisdiction of the City Court of Franklin, and HB 44, which shifts certain blight-related hearings in St. Bernard Parish from the Bureau of Administrative Adjudication to justices of the peace and constables; members asked about appeals, fines, jurisdictional limits, and whether the change would affect HOAs, and the bill was reported favorably. Members then approved HB 61 creating Battle of New Orleans Day, with an amendment clarifying holiday language and adding a detailed historical commemoration of the battle and its diverse forces. HB 233, which raises juror mileage reimbursement from 16 cents per mile to the state travel rate, drew support but also concern about the cost to local governments; the sponsor and members discussed the fiscal impact, and the bill was reported favorably. HB 164, expanding commissioner powers in the 15th Judicial District Court, was also reported favorably after testimony that it would help manage caseloads and mirror procedures used in other districts. HB 455, defining public works employees as first responders for coordination and recognition purposes, generated extensive questions about emergency authority, FEMA reimbursement, workers’ compensation, liability, and unintended consequences; the committee deferred the bill to a later meeting for further review. The committee also approved HB 242, authorizing deputy constables in St. Tammany Parish at no state cost, and HB 10, making the Friday of the International Rice Festival a legal holiday in Acadia Parish. HB 9, designating Shreveport as the stuffed shrimp capital of Louisiana, was reported favorably after light discussion. HB 571, which would make permanent the complex litigation section program in the 19th Judicial District Court, was supported by judges and court staff who said it improves efficiency in large cases such as asbestos and hurricane litigation; it was reported favorably. Finally, HB 16 and several other local measures moved forward without objection, while the committee also heard a deeply personal presentation on HB 61 designating February 24 as SCN2A Awareness Day, later amended to honor Emily Catherine Diedon by name; members expressed sympathy, discussed genetic testing and access to care, and reported the bill favorably as amended.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

State Bond Commission May 21st, 2026

Transcript Highlights:
  • Item 20 is the East Baton Rouge Parish Metropolitan Council of the Parish of East Baton Rouge and City
  • Item 20 is the East Baton Rouge Parish Metropolitan Council of the Parish of East Baton Rouge and City
  • It was converted to Type 3B in 2018 under the Orleans Parish School Board, and in 2025 the charter was
  • It was converted to Type 3B in 2018 under the Orleans Parish School Ward, and in 25, the charter was
  • Eames; Orleans Parish School Board Vice President and District 3 Representative Olin Parker; New Orleans
Keywords: 974, senate, all
Summary: The State Bond Commission met on May 21 with a quorum present and approved the April 16 minutes. The commission then reviewed and approved a large slate of local government and public authority financing requests, including election propositions for the November ballot, water and sewer infrastructure projects, fire protection and recreation district bonds, school board financing, and several refunding transactions. Most items were found to meet technical requirements and were approved on motions by Speaker DeVillier and seconded by Senator Talbot. Among the more notable items were the East Baton Rouge City-Parish refunding bonds for the Greater Baton Rouge Airport District, the City of Kenner’s retroactive approval request tied to a convention center agreement with GMB Basketball LLC, a Louisiana Housing Corporation financing increase for the Federal City Building 10 affordable housing project, and preliminary approval for the Northwest Louisiana Finance Authority’s Petro Tower redevelopment in Shreveport. The commission also approved financing for Southern University’s Scott’s Bluff student housing project and the Crescent City Schools/Harriet Tubman Charter School project. The Crescent City Schools item prompted questions about how MFP funds are used; staff explained that lease payments would support the bonds and that MFP funds are generally split between educational expenses and facilities-related costs. The commission received six monthly cost-of-issuance reports, which required no action, and a status update on the state debt schedule. It also approved Resolution No. 2 authorizing up to $425 million in general obligation refunding bonds to refund the Series 2016 bonds and tender other outstanding bonds for savings, with pricing tentatively set for June 16 and closing for June 30. During other business, New Orleans City Council President J.P. Morel thanked the commission for its role in helping address the city’s fiscal crisis and for approving a charter amendment election item aimed at strengthening budget oversight. The meeting adjourned after no further business.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

House of Representatives Apr 14th, 2026

Louisiana House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • She was elected as a State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education representative for 14 parishes
  • I'd like to recognize a dynamo that we have in Jefferson Parish.
  • Councilwoman Rita Bowhannon has hit the ground running, and she has done a fabulous job for our parish
  • Smith Lupo for service to Lakeview, City of New Orleans, becomes H.R. 134.
  • , That municipality, that parish, is going to have to pay fair market value for that property.
Bills: HR133, HR134, HR135, HR136, HR137, HR138, HR139, HR140, HR141, HR142, HR143, HR144, HR145, HR146, HR147, HR148, HR149, HR150, HR151, HR152, HR119, HR120, HR121, HR122, HR123, HR125, HR126, HR127, HR128, HR129, HR130, HR131, HR132, HCR53, HCR54, HCR55, HCR56, SCR3, SCR22, SB4, SB18, SB66, SB106, SB201, SB256, SB274, SB292, SB326, SB386, SB406, SB422, SB423, SB456, SB475, HCR3, HB1, HB3, HB27, HB71, HB214, HB225, HB241, HB244, HB306, HB312, HB313, HB314, HB345, HB366, HB383, HB446, HB473, HB511, HB514, HB655, HB730, HB743, HB836, HB983, HB1027, HB1037, HB1043, HB1082, HB1091, HB1096, HB1103, HB1126, HB1167, HB1174, HB1175, HB1230, HB1237, HB1238, SB162, SB349, SB350, SB382, SB383, HB76, HB132, HB181, HB210, HB250, HB265, HB275, HB291, HB322, HB342, HB475, HB486, HB616, HB635, HB639, HB690, HB740, HB757, HB761, HB774, HB808, HB855, HB872, HB883, HB886, HB903, HB949, HB962, HB996, HB1003, HB1036, HB1054, HB1071, HB1076, HB1078, HB1113, HB1132, HB1146, HB1232, HB1233, HB21, HB24, HB29, HB31, HB39, HB45, HB77, HB136, HB150, HB263, HB273, HB299, HB315, HB376, HB377, HB431, HB444, HB450, HB519, HB533, HB538, HB559, HB562, HB663, HB664, HB715, HB717, HB805, HB822, HB823, HB834, HB864, HB867, HB1017, HB1018, HB1068, HB1134, HB1137, HB1234, HB1235, HB1236, HB961, HB399, HB868, HB905, HB180, HB192, HB284, HB476, HB915, HB952, HB1006, HB401, HB51, HB58, HB140, HB982, HB1010, HB750, HB911, HB977, HB901, HR20, HR74, HB9, HB151, HB193, HB310, HB393, HB459, HB577, HB582, HB605, HB614, HB615, HB682, HB733, HB773
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

Transportation, Highways and Public Works Mar 16th, 2026

Transportation, Highways & Public Works

Transcript Highlights:
  • my parish of St.
  • We had representatives from Orleans Parish.
  • Natchitoches Parish is... Natchitoches Parish is working to get their weight task force as is.
  • The parishes kept 8%.
  • what our parishes do.
Summary: The House Transportation Committee met on March 16 with a quorum present and first deferred three local bills at the sponsor’s request: HB 590, HB 679, and HB 873. The committee then advanced HB 503, which cleans up prior local language for Golden Meadow by removing a reference to electric golf carts and updating the definition of utility terrain vehicles; the technical amendment set was adopted and the bill was reported with amendments. HB 720, dealing with tacit dedication of roads and preserving historic public access to waterways and related access points, was reported favorably after members agreed to continue working on the amendment language before floor debate. The committee spent substantial time on HB 309, which originally made it a crime to walk in a crosswalk while looking at a cell phone. After amendments converted the proposal to a $25 civil fine and added a rebuttable presumption of liability for damages, members from both parties raised concerns about enforceability, tourism and urban pedestrian patterns, free-will and overreach arguments, and the lack of data tying the conduct specifically to crosswalk crashes. The author argued the measure was intended to promote situational awareness and reduce pedestrian injuries and fatalities, but after opposition testimony the bill was voluntarily deferred. Members then reported HB 856, which expands DOTD’s use of indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity construction contracting and adds the Office of Louisiana Highway Construction, after technical amendments clarified the contracts are for construction-phase work. HB 487, increasing penalties for drivers who use shoulders or turning lanes to bypass red lights, was reported with a technical correction after police support testimony. HB 846, prohibiting license plate coverings or films that obscure plates, was reported favorably after law enforcement support and discussion of clear frames versus obscuring covers. HB 733 and HB 875, both tied to OMV fee and lapse-of-insurance recommendations from the Legislative Auditor, were reported with amendments adjusting grace periods and offense timing. The committee also took up HB 695 on consensual non-commercial towing permits. After extensive questioning about whether the bill applied to multiple vehicles, interstate travel, OMV implementation, and the practicality of an honor-system QR code permit, the sponsor agreed to amend the bill to cover multiple vehicles and then voluntarily defer it for further work with OMV and State Police. HB 777, requiring a driver’s license renewal knowledge exam, was amended at the department’s request and then voluntarily deferred for further review. HB 868, prompted by a fatal trailer accident involving a farmer’s wife, would require trailers to meet safety-chain and braking standards consistent with manufacturer specifications or federal standards; after concerns from members and the Agriculture Commissioner about impacts on older farm equipment, the bill was reported with amendments. Finally, HB 707 moved the LPG Commission’s marketing functions to the Department of Agriculture and Forestry and was reported with a technical amendment, HB 693 on legislative district highway signs was voluntarily deferred after amendments, and HB 746 on local oversized trucking permits opened a broader discussion about parish-by-parish permit disparities, with the sponsor proposing a one-year moratorium on new local standards while stakeholders work toward a more uniform system.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

House and Governmental Affairs Apr 28th, 2026

House and Governmental Affairs

Transcript Highlights:
  • In here you're exempting the Parish of Orleans. I'm objectionable to that.
  • It says the Parish of Orleans is exempt. That is an existing law, so we're not changing it.
  • But again, Orleans Parish has been doing this, and I would like to continue to see that outreach from
  • my colleagues instead of singling out Orleans Parish.
  • It's not costing New Orleans Parish $1 million.
Summary: The committee met with a quorum and considered several bills, mostly dealing with open meetings, public records, election administration, and local government notice requirements. Senate Bill 1 by Sen. Jenkins would authorize electronic voting under the Open Meetings Law and apply retroactively to validate prior electronic votes; after brief discussion and support from the Louisiana Municipal Association, it was reported favorably. House Bill 1052 by Rep. Spell would exempt certain child advocacy center and multidisciplinary team work product, forensic interviews, and related sensitive records from public records disclosure to protect child abuse investigations; testimony from child advocacy organizations emphasized the need to prevent misuse of records and preserve court-controlled access, and the bill was reported favorably. Senate Bill 289 by Sen. Abraham, concerning confidentiality of certain university records and negotiations, was amended to clarify protections for proprietary research, donor confidentiality, and limited confidentiality for industry negotiations, then reported favorably as amended. Senate Bill 218 by Sen. Talbot, allowing alternative certification programs for election officials if approved by the State Board of Election Supervisors, and Senate Bill 220, a technical correction regarding the official journal of the state, were both reported favorably. Senate Bill 161 by Sen. Seaball, repealing a requirement that certain high-salary unclassified state employees register vehicles in Louisiana, was also reported favorably after questions about its scope and purpose. The committee then took up House Bill 1193 by Rep. Sawyer, which authorizes the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to use indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity construction contracts for maintenance and emergency work. CPRA officials said the model would speed small repairs and pre-construction tasks, improve efficiency, and mirror a similar DOTD approach; an amendment narrowed the public-records language and excluded design-build contracting. Members raised concerns about public records transparency and inclusion of minority and small contractors, but the bill was reported favorably as amended. House Bill 249 by Rep. Green, a constitutional amendment creating an independent compensation commission for elected officials and tying adjustments to CPI, drew extensive debate over removing the legislature from setting salaries, the appointment structure, and whether the state could afford automatic increases. After opposition from several members and a roll-call vote, the bill failed to be reported, 6 yeas to 9 nays. Because HB 249 failed, the companion enabling bill, House Bill 248, was deferred. Finally, the committee heard House Bill 997 by Rep. Edmondson, which would let parishes, municipalities, and school boards use their own websites as an alternative to newspaper publication for public notices. Supporters from the Police Jury Association argued the bill would reduce duplicative costs, preserve all existing notice requirements, and simply add a third option alongside newspaper publication and newspaper-hosted digital publication. An amendment narrowed the bill to parishes, municipalities, and school boards, removing other political subdivisions. Members questioned transparency, enforcement, record retention, and whether the change would undermine newspapers; supporters said courts would still enforce notice requirements and that local governments already maintain the records. The bill remained under discussion at the end of the transcript, with no final action shown in the excerpt.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

Appropriations Mar 23rd, 2026

Appropriations

Transcript Highlights:
  • In New Orleans, we cover Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, St.
  • In New Orleans, we cover Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, St.
  • So we are across all Renew schools in Orleans Parish, and so we place that in four different schools
  • Tammany Parish, East Baton Rouge Parish, Iberville Parish, Ascension Parish, and Lafayette Parish.
  • We serve Vernon Parish, which I think is your parish.
Summary: The committee heard public testimony on several budget requests tied to health and human services. Louisiana Children’s Advocacy Centers asked for continued support and a supplemental appropriation of $1.173 million for infrastructure and standardization, explaining that the money would expand use of the Guardify digital evidence system, improve chain of custody, and reduce reliance on DVDs. Baton Rouge and statewide CAC leaders said prior funding helped eliminate a therapy wait list and speed services for abused children. Members asked detailed questions about the digital system, MDT coordination, and how the request related to SB 237, which would strengthen multidisciplinary review of child abuse cases. The Alzheimer’s Association sought $824,000 to sustain the dementia care specialist program, saying it helps families navigate services, keep loved ones at home longer, and reduce Medicaid costs. AARP and the Live at Home Coalition also testified for 750 additional Community Choice waiver slots at a state cost of $3.3 million, arguing that home- and community-based care is cheaper than nursing homes and that the current wait list is more than 11,000 people. Legislators discussed the size of the need, the state’s long-term care spending mix, and whether more support should go to family caregivers and community-based options. Testimony also focused on disability support services, substance use treatment, and developmental disability provider rates. A parent and direct support worker described the Children’s Choice waiver’s 20-hour cap and low pay, saying it makes it hard to retain caregivers and meet the needs of medically fragile children. Odyssey House and O’Brien House asked for higher Medicaid reimbursement rates under ASAM 4, warned that removal of room-and-board payments and weak Medicaid eligibility pathways are reducing access, and called for more oversight of sober living homes; members questioned outcomes data, length of stay, and links to homelessness. Finally, the Arc of Louisiana said the LDH rate study confirmed underfunding and supported a $53.6 million increase in state general funds, with local ARC leaders describing the services they provide and the need for higher direct support professional wages.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

Appropriations Mar 23rd, 2026

Appropriations

Transcript Highlights:
  • In New Orleans, we cover Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, St.
  • In New Orleans, we cover Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, St.
  • So we are across all RENEW schools in Orleans Parish, and so we place that in four different schools
  • Tammany Parish, East Baton Rouge Parish, Iberville Parish, Ascension Parish, and Lafayette Parish.
  • We serve Vernon Parish, which I think is your parish.
Keywords: 965, house, all
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

Senate May 4th, 2026

Louisiana Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill 681 by Representative Hilferty is an act in Title 33 relative to Orleans Parish, to provide
  • House Bill 681 by Representative Hilferty is an act in Title 33 relative to Orleans Parish, to provide
  • and Orleans, to create the West End Economic Development District within the parishes.
  • and Orleans, to create the West End Economic Development District within the parishes.
  • and Orleans to create the West End Economic Development District within the parishes.
Bills: SR107, SCR53, SCR54, SCR55, SCR12, HB167, HB181, HB243, HB316, HB321, HB335, HB492, HB578, HB624, HB708, HB864, HB906, HB968, HB969, HB978, HB985, HB1005, HB1032, HB1077, HB1095, HB1104, HB1118, HB1157, HB1187, HB1189, HB1195, HB1198, HB1220, HB221, HCR58, SB283, SB338, SB488, SB520, HB90, HB127, HB138, HB150, HB201, HB268, HB273, HB285, HB315, HB354, HB355, HB360, HB376, HB445, HB506, HB606, HB649, HB665, HB681, HB721, HB746, HB757, HB781, HB835, HB844, HB857, HB872, HB886, HB889, HB892, HB972, HB982, HB987, HB1037, HB1068, HB1072, HB1078, HB1085, HB1132, HB1137, HB1167, HB1174, HB1232, HB1238, SB68, SB76, SB149, SB191, SB196, SB318, SB162, SB382, SCR33, SCR30, SB112, SB194, SB307, SB341, SB346, SB363, SB495, SB503, SB507, SB509, SB513, SB408, SB131, SB145, SB333, SB464, SB466, SB500, SB35, SB65, SB215, SB228, SB246, SB249, SB268, SB269, SB282, SB296, SB312, SB319, SB323, SB369, SB431, SB474, SB484, SB490, SB492, SB501, HCR14, HB537, HB652, HB653, HB661, HB726, HB756, HB851, HB964, HB966, HB34, HB35, HB48, HB474, HB553, HB758, HB852, HB10, HB16, HB36, HB44, HB46, HB52, HB61, HB78, HB98, HB102, HB124, HB126, HB131, HB135, HB141, HB142, HB164, HB170, HB171, HB179, HB194, HB231, HB245, HB280, HB292, HB294, HB297, HB305, HB336, HB337, HB351, HB436, HB594, HB789, HB956, HB957, HB995, HB1040, HB50, HB117, HB120, HB122, HB139, HB148, HB149, HB185, HB199, HB247, HB271, HB286, HB301, HB358, HB359, HB384, HB413, HB428, HB450, HB462, HB547, HB613, HB631, HB657, HB669, HB675, HB680, HB691, HB712, HB716, HB720, HB723, HB727, HB728, HB735, HB747, HB759, HB825, HB842, HB845, HB846, HB903, HB904, HB907, HB923, HB929, HB941, HB962, HB965, HB1036, HB287, HB370, HB515, HB521, HB570, HB1200, HB119, HB129, HB677, HB850
Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, heard a guest minister’s prayer and pledge, and then proceeded through the journal, legislative bureau report, and a large number of bills and resolutions. Several Senate resolutions and concurrent resolutions were introduced or laid over, including measures recognizing individuals and events, commemorating the YMCA’s 175th anniversary, and creating or referring study and memorial resolutions. The House also sent over multiple bills, which were introduced and referred to the appropriate committees, covering topics such as court filings, travel reimbursement, public assistance integrity, pregnancy and baby care data protections, alcohol permits, capital-case intellectual disability procedures, and pharmacy benefit manager transparency. The chamber then considered House-returned Senate bills. SB 68, a constitutional amendment concerning Louisiana Supreme Court jurisdiction over attorney disciplinary matters, failed to receive the required votes on concurrence after a 24-10 vote, though the author gave notice. SB 76, dealing with child custody modification standards, was concurred in unanimously. SB 149, on general obligation bond bid requirements, had House amendments rejected and was sent to conference. SB 191, concerning ad valorem tax notice procedures, and SB 196, extending the appeal period for tax assessments, were both concurred in. SB 318, on publication of the tax exemption budget and local reporting, was also concurred in unanimously. The Senate also suspended the rules to recall HB 1017 from the Retirement Committee and recommit it to Judiciary A. During personal privilege remarks, members highlighted Disability Awareness Day, recognized a local award recipient, and provided an update and prayer request for Senator Selders following surgery. The meeting concluded with committee announcements and adjournment to reconvene the following day.
LA
Transcript Highlights:
  • In 2025, 62 of the 64 parishes in Louisiana were identified as a parish of trafficking.
  • The only two that were not identified were Vermilion Parish and Cameron Parish.
  • I hope you do have good conversations with the Orleans Parish. Thank you. Thank you, Madam Chair.
  • Parish-wide, when we talk about New Orleans-Banrooge, Alexandria, where the higher numbers...
  • Parish-wide, when we talk about New Orleans-Banrooge report, Alexandria, where the higher numbers.
Keywords: 965, house, all
Summary: The committee held its inaugural meeting on March 5, 2026, with opening remarks from Chair Freiberg and Vice Chair Marcelle describing the panel’s purpose as studying issues affecting women and children, including health, education, economic opportunity, safety, and criminal justice. After roll call, the chair noted the meeting was informational only and not requiring a quorum. The committee then heard presentations and asked questions on human trafficking and child exploitation, followed by an audit report on the treatment and care of incarcerated women. Mary Kate Andrepont of the Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention presented 2025 data showing 2,963 victims identified, 15,437 service instances, and 33% of victims remaining in services at least nine months. She said 93% of reported victims were sex trafficking victims, most were under 18, and 62 of 64 parishes had trafficking reports. She explained familial trafficking, described screening and coordinated response procedures, and highlighted new tools and outreach campaigns. She also discussed two priority bills: HB 321 by Rep. LaFleur, which would create immunity from prostitution offenses for child trafficking victims under Safe Harbor principles, and SB 83 by Sen. Edmonds, which would require school board trafficking policies and expand victim advocacy services to labor trafficking victims and survivors up to age 21. Committee members asked about reporting procedures, data trends, service gaps, and the reach of the screening tools. Chris Masters of the Attorney General’s office then presented on online child exploitation and child sexual abuse material through the Louisiana ICAC Task Force. He reported 31,203 tips in 2025, 545 arrests, more than 80 children identified or rescued, over 1,500 search warrants, and more than 100 community presentations. He said the task force is expanding statewide, including an Orleans Metro unit, and asked for more analysts and outreach personnel to handle a projected rise in cyber tips. Members asked about community presentations, the scope of the investigations, sex offender social media restrictions, interstate cases, sentencing, and how online enticement and live abuse are prosecuted. The discussion emphasized parental monitoring, school outreach, and coordination with federal partners. The final item introduced an audit report on the treatment and care of incarcerated females. Legislative Auditor staff said the review, requested by a 2023 resolution, found that Louisiana’s jails and guidance documents had not fully addressed the key laws and standards governing women’s incarceration, including restraint use during pregnancy and childbirth, health care, hygiene, dignity, and reentry. They noted that local jails still house a majority of incarcerated women despite the opening of a new state facility, and that several facilities had confirmed prohibited restraint use or failed to provide required written advisements. The staff said the report included legislative considerations for improving compliance and care.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

House of Representitives Mar 9th, 2026

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill by Representative Newell, Orleans Parish Spring Lake Subdivision Improvement District, taxes
  • Today, the state spends more than twice as much on the Orleans Parish court system as it does in our
  • And what's interesting is, unlike every other parish, we foot 100% of that bill for Orleans, 100%.
  • House Bill by Representative Hilferty, Orleans Parish Lakeview Crime Prevention District; parcel fee,
  • House Bill by Representative Mandy Landry, Sheriff Parish of Orleans; sheriff's term of office, 813.
Keywords: 965, house, all
Summary: The House convened with a quorum, opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and then received and processed multiple resignation notices and special-election proclamations for vacant seats. The chamber later recognized and swore in newly elected members Doyle Boudreaux, Reese Broussard, Chassity Verrett-Martinez, and Edwin Murray after no objections were raised to their qualifications. The House also appointed committees to notify the Senate and the governor that it was ready to conduct business for the 2026 regular session, and it adopted the proposed standing committee meeting schedule and referred prefiled bills to committee without objection. The bulk of the meeting was devoted to the introduction and reading of a very large number of House bills and resolutions across many subject areas. Measures included the annual appropriations bill, a proposed constitutional convention, carbon dioxide sequestration and pipeline permitting, retirement-system changes, criminal justice and public safety proposals, education and workforce measures, local government and district creation bills, insurance and liability reforms, and numerous commemorative resolutions. Several prefiled bills were withdrawn, and many introduced measures were assigned to committees or allowed to lie over under the rules. The House then entered a joint session with the Senate for the governor’s address. Governor Jeff Landry outlined his administration’s priorities and praised recent legislative actions on taxes, insurance reform, transportation, education, and fiscal discipline. He urged support for Amendment 3 on teacher pay and retirement, called for further workforce and health initiatives, defended insurance and transportation reforms, and pressed for judicial reform, especially in Orleans Parish, citing the death of Jacob Carter and failures in electronic monitoring as examples. He also promoted replacing the vehicle inspection sticker with a QR code system and highlighted economic growth, lower taxes, and infrastructure investments. The joint session also included a presentation of the colors by the Louisiana National Guard and a Distinguished Flying Cross ceremony for Technical Sergeant Adam W. Brister, recognizing his 2018 rescue mission in Alaska. After the governor’s remarks and the military honor presentation, the joint session concluded and the House resumed introducing additional bills, continuing to file measures on topics such as health care, education, ethics, elections, local districts, and constitutional amendments.
LA
Transcript Highlights:
  • And they’re still within the parish government.
  • “Yes, so we have a weird situation in Orleans Parish, one about 10 years ago, maybe.
  • Parish.
  • I live in Jefferson Parish, have a business in New Orleans.
  • Orleans.
Summary: The Senate and Governmental Affairs Committee met on May 6, 2026, approved the April 28 minutes, and heard several bills before moving into confirmation hearings. HB 205, by Rep. Bacala, would allow local governing authorities to supplement election commissioners’ pay by up to $100 per day; supporters from clerks of court and the Secretary of State’s office said the increase is needed to recruit and retain qualified commissioners amid longer days, training demands, and election security changes. The committee also reported HB 210, a cleanup bill clarifying retroactive application of a prior ethics law, and HB 228, which recreates the Department of State Civil Service and related entities through 2033. It likewise reported SR 86, which bars eyeglasses with audio/video recording capability in the Senate chamber without the Senate President’s permission, and HB 1177, which protects the identities of lottery hunt winners until after the drawing. HB 1045, limited to Pointe Coupee Parish, raises an audit threshold for certain water districts from $500,000 to $600,000 to reduce audit costs, and HB 813 would move Orleans Parish sheriff terms so the sheriff takes office in January instead of waiting until May; all were reported favorably. Senator Miller also announced that SB 491 would not be taken up that day. The committee then questioned nominees to the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority East. The first group, including Peter Vicari and Ronald Schumann, was asked extensively about recent personnel actions, an internal investigation, and the authority’s handling of a report that members said would likely be released after a board vote. Senators focused on the firing of the chief of police/operations personnel, allegations of payroll fraud, and whether the authority had improperly combined the chief of police role with compliance duties in a way that may conflict with statute and Civil Service guidance. Committee members also raised concerns about the chief’s contract, whether it had board approval, and whether the authority’s bylaws and salary practices complied with law. The nominees and counsel said some matters were still under review and that a separate compliance position was being considered. The committee later heard from additional nominees, including David Martin, Gregory Marsiglia, and Elton Jude Myers, who described backgrounds in engineering, law, procurement, and governmental contracts. Senators again pressed them on the need to separate compliance/auditing duties from the chief of police role, and the nominees generally agreed that those functions should be distinct and that the authority should have qualified auditing expertise. The meeting ended with no public comment and adjournment after the confirmation discussion.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

Education Apr 8th, 2026

Education

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the vice president of the Orleans Parish School Board.
  • I want to understand, does this bill apply only within the Orleans Parish school system? Yes.
  • I want to understand, does this bill apply only within the Orleans Parish school system? Yes.
  • The Orleans Parish School Board passes through 98% of its revenues to our charter schools.
  • decisions for the children that we serve in Orleans Parish.
Summary: The committee first heard HB 690 by Rep. Amedee, which would prohibit education agencies and vendors from contracting with foreign adversaries, foreign terrorist organizations, or their agents, and would apply to education service providers, vendors of educational products, and some schools. Supporters argued the bill would protect school tax dollars and prevent foreign influence, especially from the Chinese Communist Party, citing similar actions in Florida and Texas. Some members raised questions about due process, how ineligibility would be determined, and whether payments would stop before appeals were resolved. A technical amendment changing “terrorists” to “terrorist” was adopted, and HB 690 was reported as amended without objection. The committee then took up HB 1078 by Rep. Freiberg, which would allow higher education institutions to offer standalone online courses, not just online programs tied to a degree, and to offer online programs even when there is no equivalent on-campus program. LSU officials said the bill would give flexibility for professional and workforce-related courses and certificates. Members asked about tuition-setting, prerequisites, and whether non-degree students could enroll. The bill was reported favorably without objection. HB 113 by Rep. Phelps, which sought retroactive application of the uniform 10-point grading scale to students who were ninth graders in 2023-2024, drew significant concern. Members questioned fairness, inconsistency if only some districts could recalculate grades, and the fiscal impact of retroactivity. Phelps said he had intended to capture that cohort and was willing to work with the Department of Education, but after debate the committee voted 2-9 against reporting the bill, so the motion failed. The committee also heard HB 632 by Rep. Spell on LA FIRST data sharing. The bill would streamline how student data is shared for the state’s longitudinal data system, and amendments were adopted to remove a five-year look-back and clarify data matching and de-identification. Members debated privacy, opt-out rights, and whether the bill should require or merely allow districts to participate; concerns were raised about sharing personally identifying information and the lack of clear opt-out protections. Rep. Carlson offered an amendment to change “shall” to “may,” but later withdrew it so the bill could be deferred for further discussion. Finally, HB 1132 by Rep. Carver, carried by Rep. Carlson, was introduced to expand lab school authorization within the University of Louisiana system; an amendment was offered to limit the change to new schools established after August 1, and discussion began on that amendment as the transcript ended.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

Judiciary B May 5th, 2026

Judiciary B

Transcript Highlights:
  • But in New Orleans, I got a different revenue stream than some of the local parishes or districts.
  • But in New Orleans, I got a different revenue stream than some of the local parishes or districts.
  • It would require the Orleans Parish arresting agency to notify our office and the juvenile court, and
  • It would can be arrested in Orleans Parish but also have open charges in Jefferson Parish.
  • It would require the Orleans Parish arresting agency notify our office and the juvenile court and vice
Summary: The committee first approved the April 28 minutes and announced that Senate Bill 499 was voluntarily deferred. It then heard several House bills, beginning with HB 168, a reentry/transitional housing program for female parolees near release; supporters said it would improve public safety and reduce recidivism, and the bill was reported favorably without objection. HB 322, a cleanup bill from the Maggie Grace Act clarifying that victims or families requesting transcripts would not be charged, was also reported favorably without objection. HB 622, which aligns Louisiana criminal history information practices with federal rules, was amended and then reported favorably. HB 821, moving the School for Safe Centers from GOSEP to the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement, was reported favorably as well. The committee then took up HB 364, which directs State Police to partner on public awareness efforts about the illegality of discharging firearms, especially around holidays. An amendment removed a proposed printing cost and shifted the bill toward PSAs; the bill was reported favorably with amendments. HB 568, which strengthens enforcement of drug-free school zone laws by creating a clearer offense for openly smoking or vaping illegal drugs in school zones and setting a specific penalty for marijuana, drew extensive debate. Supporters, including the author and governor’s office, said it was needed to protect children and families and to give law enforcement a workable deterrent. Opponents argued it would impose harsh, geography-based penalties, sweep in medical cannabis patients and veterans, and worsen racial and fiscal disparities. After roll-call, the committee reported HB 568 favorably by a 3-2 vote. The committee also approved HB 296, a cleanup bill removing long-defunct programs from statute, without objection. HB 823, creating an Orleans Parish DA pilot diversion program for unhoused people accused of nonviolent offenses, was supported by Covenant House and others as a way to avoid criminalizing homelessness and was reported favorably without objection. Finally, HB 1038, a major bill revising the authority and liability structure of city marshals and local governments, prompted extensive testimony. The bill and amendments would limit some marshal powers in smaller jurisdictions, require local approval for certain staffing/insurance matters, and allow local governments to restore powers by ordinance. Supporters said it would reduce liability, clarify authority, and address problems in some marshal offices; opponents, including multiple marshals and law enforcement supporters, said it would undermine elected marshals, hurt small offices, and was too broad and under-studied. The transcript ends amid that hearing, with no final committee action shown on HB 1038.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

House and Governmental Affairs Apr 28th, 2026

House and Governmental Affairs

Transcript Highlights:
  • In here you're exempting the parish of Orleans. I'm objectionable to that.
  • It says the parish of Orleans excepted. That is an existing law. So we're not changing it.
  • my colleagues as singling out Orleans Parish.
  • It's not costing New Orleans Parish $1 million.
  • Orleans Parish $1 million is costing us collectively, $1 to $2 million a year.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

House of Representatives Apr 28th, 2026

Louisiana House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Great New Orleans Sports Foundation.
  • for New Orleans Day.
  • Orleans, Helena Moreno.
  • Today is New Orleans Day.
  • Bernard Parish, State of Louisiana, becomes H.R. 214.
Summary: The House met on April 27, 2026, with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a series of personal privileges recognizing Domestic Violence Prevention and Advocacy Day, Guarantee Corporation’s 100th anniversary, Delta Waterfowl, FFA and 4-H students, St. Bernard Parish Day, the Louisiana Notary Association, and New Orleans Day. The chamber also received Senate messages, committee reports, and introduced several resolutions, including measures on Gulf States renewable energy, asthma and allergy awareness, St. Bernard Parish Day, and other commemorations. The floor then took up a long series of bills and resolutions. Among the notable measures were House Bill 316 on literacy and tutoring, House Bill 578 changing statutory references from gender to sex, House Bill 748 expanding toll exemptions for school board vehicles, House Bill 101 redesignating a portion of U.S. Highway 190 as the Jesse Jackson Memorial Highway, House Bill 1032 cleaning up DWI terminology, House Bill 1081 transferring the Louisiana Ports and Waterways Investment Commission, House Bill 1108 creating a homeschool pride prestige plate, House Bill 1129 giving in-state auctioneers preference for selling surplus state property, House Bill 1157 creating a Louisiana State Infrastructure Bank, House Bill 1192 creating a dental hygienist prestige plate, House Bill 1195 revising athletic commission rules and NIL-related provisions, House Bill 1198 barring arbitration in child custody and visitation matters, House Bill 181 allowing limited tax-data sharing for Medicaid/SNAP integrity, House Bill 1118 requiring disclosure of hospital ownership by real estate investment trusts, House Bill 1082 changing venue rules in suits involving municipal police employees’ retirement systems, House Bill 225 proposing a lifetime two-term limit for governor, House Bill 864 on municipal fire limits and storage of flammables, House Bill 1189 requiring captain’s licenses for certain freshwater charter guides, and House Bill 549 creating the Bayou Growth Opportunity Workforce Program. Most measures passed, often after brief debate and technical amendments. Several bills were recommitted or returned to the calendar, including House Bill 902, House Bill 1245, and House Bill 1247, while House Bill 225 failed on final passage. The House also considered and passed multiple Senate bills dealing with tax administration, child custody testimony, Supreme Court disciplinary jurisdiction over out-of-state lawyers, civil investigation demands in Medicaid fraud cases, service of process fees and notice, and permanent homestead exemption registration. The session ended with the House in recess after completing its bill agenda for the day.
LA

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

Senate May 19th, 2026

Louisiana Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • to the Sewage and Water Board of New Orleans.
  • House Bill 1007 by Representative Knox is an act in Title 33 relative to Orleans Parish, to create the
  • House Bill 1254 by Representative Newell is an act in Title 33 relative to Orleans Parish, to provide
  • Senate Bill 217 by Senator Morris is an act in Title 13 relative to courts in Orleans Parish, to provide
  • Members, I looked at the North Orleans Belt Railroad situation after we had at the North Orleans Belt
Bills: SR126, SR129, SCR71, SCR72, SCR73, SCR12, HB221, HCR54, HCR79, HCR87, HCR94, HCR95, HCR97, HCR102, HCR104, HCR58, SB480, SB514, HB12, HB66, HB145, HB167, HB175, HB196, HB213, HB218, HB222, HB256, HB291, HB325, HB326, HB352, HB401, HB430, HB433, HB434, HB448, HB456, HB476, HB481, HB487, HB492, HB549, HB579, HB608, HB621, HB624, HB626, HB632, HB637, HB656, HB722, HB745, HB749, HB804, HB818, HB821, HB833, HB864, HB867, HB874, HB893, HB909, HB951, HB968, HB969, HB978, HB979, HB985, HB988, HB989, HB1001, HB1005, HB1007, HB1024, HB1032, HB1038, HB1050, HB1051, HB1056, HB1059, HB1077, HB1080, HB1081, HB1086, HB1108, HB1112, HB1153, HB1172, HB1173, HB1175, HB1192, HB1193, HB1204, HB1218, HB1242, HB1244, HB1249, HB1252, HB1254, HB538, SCR3, SCR23, SCR38, SCR24, SB102, SB133, SB151, SB165, SB169, SB170, SB200, SB217, SB280, SB291, SB300, SB303, SB330, SB449, SB489, SB521, SB45, SB156, SB181, SB203, SB274, SB304, SB379, SB396, SB410, SB425, SB427, SB436, SB54, SB72, SB129, SB164, SB232, SB287, SB322, SB374, SB375, SB386, SB409, SB447, SB458, SB222, SB399, SR119, SCR58, SCR65, SCR9, SB35, SB65, SB215, SB246, SB249, SB269, SB282, SB296, SB323, SB363, SB369, SB474, SB490, SB492, SB500, HCR41, HCR47, HCR63, HCR69, HCR31, HB87, HB115, HB162, HB195, HB214, HB217, HB233, HB283, HB290, HB319, HB324, HB345, HB362, HB363, HB368, HB377, HB380, HB382, HB386, HB392, HB406, HB431, HB441, HB466, HB503, HB533, HB559, HB575, HB590, HB593, HB618, HB655, HB664, HB685, HB692, HB707, HB715, HB732, HB738, HB741, HB748, HB776, HB807, HB822, HB856, HB860, HB868, HB887, HB888, HB905, HB908, HB961, HB980, HB990, HB992, HB999, HB1000, HB1010, HB1146, HB1157, HB1233, HB1236, HB1243, HB54, HB137, HB180, HB192, HB310, HB321, HB396, HB512, HB552, HB578, HB638, HB663, HB708, HB717, HB718, HB1009, HB1082, HB1104, HB1107, HB1198, HB1246, HB27, HB143, HB205, HB259, HB267, HB288, HB308, HB403, HB405, HB414, HB417, HB478, HB546, HB548, HB555, HB557, HB609, HB670, HB672, HB740, HB779, HB786, HB796, HB812, HB848, HB915, HB917, HB921, HB930, HB933, HB1095, HB1096, HB1103, HB1129, HB1154, HB1166, HB1187, HB1195, HB1230, HB17, HB36, HB41, HB47, HB73, HB119, HB126, HB129, HB133, HB140, HB159, HB166, HB211, HB226, HB245, HB271, HB280, HB337, HB351, HB354, HB399, HB571, HB677, HB712, HB723, HB726, HB728, HB750, HB759, HB789, HB844, HB850, HB870, HB966, HB1006, HB1018, HB1036, HB1241, SB29, SB42, SB43, SB382, SB441, HB134, HB258, HB359, HB782
Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, heard a prayer from guest minister Troy Brigadio, and recited the pledge. The chamber then handled journal approval, committee and House messages, and a large number of resolutions and bills, with many items lying over or being referred to committees. Several Senate resolutions were adopted by voice or machine vote, including commendations for World Preeclampsia Awareness Day, Kathy Holloway, Jensen LeBlanc, and River Bend Station, and the Senate also recognized Senator Mike Reese’s new role as president of McNeese State University. The body spent much of the meeting concurring in or rejecting House amendments to Senate bills. Concurrences were approved on measures including SB 102, 133, 151, 165, 169, 170, 200, 280, 291, 303, 330, 396, 410, 425, 427, 436, 489, 521, 45, 156, 181, 203, 304, and 399. The Senate rejected House amendments on SB 217, SB 300, SB 274, and SB 379, sending those matters toward conference or further work. One notable floor debate occurred on SB 449, where Senator Moore objected to concurring in amendments affecting the North Orleans Belt Railroad; after discussion about corruption concerns and public bid laws, the chamber rejected the amendments 26-9. The Senate also took up numerous House bills on final passage, approving measures on local governance, public safety, education, tax policy, and infrastructure. These included HB 87 on Livingston Parish Gas Utility District per diem, HB 115 on abolishing the police chief office in Edgefield, HB 162 on a neighborhood improvement district fee, HB 195 allowing pepper spray on campus, HB 214 and HB 217 on optional ad valorem tax exemptions for rehabilitated blighted property, HB 233 on jury compensation, HB 354 renaming a bridge as the Caleb Easterling Memorial Bridge, HB 283 on protections for assaulted school employees, HB 290 recreating the Department of Treasury, and HB 319 adjusting civic education commission membership. Several of these passed unanimously or with only a few dissenting votes, and members frequently moved to reconsider and record objections after final passage.