This bill establishes clear legal standards for determining intellectual disability in Louisiana capital cases, affecting defendants facing the death penalty and those seeking post-conviction relief. It defines intellectual disability as having an IQ of 70 or below, significant deficits in adaptive behavior, and both conditions manifesting before age 18. The law requires defendants to prove intellectual disability by a preponderance of the evidence during sentencing hearings, while post-conviction petitioners must provide clear and convincing evidence. Additionally, the bill creates an irrebuttable presumption that a petitioner does not have intellectual disability if they score above 75 on a standardized IQ test administered by a licensed professional.
This bill proposes to update Louisiana's laws regarding reckless operation of a vehicle by clarifying what behaviors constitute the offense. It directly affects drivers and operators of motor vehicles, aircraft, vessels, and other conveyances by defining specific actions as reckless. The key provision expands the definition to include operating any vehicle in a criminally negligent or reckless manner, as well as driving a motor vehicle at or above 100 miles per hour. These changes aim to provide clearer legal standards for prosecutors and courts when handling cases involving dangerous vehicle operation. The bill would apply to anyone operating a vehicle in violation of these new or clarified standards.
HB 214 is a proposed constitutional amendment (not yet enacted) that would allow Louisiana property owners to qualify for an optional property tax exemption on blighted or derelict properties after rehabilitation. It requires the legislature to define terms like "blighted property" and establish rules for the exemption, including its duration and administration. The exemption would apply to tax years starting January 1, 2027, if approved by voters in November 2026. This change directly affects property owners who rehabilitate eligible properties and local governments that would administer the program.
HB 521 proposes a constitutional amendment to Louisiana's property tax system, allowing local taxing authorities (like parishes or municipalities) to adjust property tax rates to the maximum authorized rate from a prior reassessment without requiring new voter approval. The key mechanism permits these authorities to increase rates to the previous year's maximum level using a two-thirds vote of the governing body, after holding a public hearing with proper notice. This change would take effect January 1, 2027, and applies to all property tax collections starting that date. The bill does not change current tax rates but modifies the process for adjusting them, requiring transparency through public hearings while removing the need for separate voter referendums for these adjustments.
HB 51 proposes a constitutional amendment to Louisiana's Constitution that would prohibit bail after a conviction for certain offenses. Specifically, it would ban bail for defendants convicted of an "aggravated offense" (as defined in state law) committed against a minor victim. This change would apply only after a conviction and before sentencing or final judgment, affecting individuals found guilty of these specific crimes against children. The amendment requires voter approval in the 2026 election to take effect.
This bill asks the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections to extend its deadline for creating a victims' services system from July 1, 2026, to July 1, 2027. The original law required the department to build a system that provides support and information to crime victims and witnesses, but the bill gives the agency more time to complete this task. This change affects the state's criminal justice administration by allowing additional planning time for the new services. The resolution emphasizes that the department should still finish the project quickly and ensure the final system works effectively.
This bill designates Tuesday, May 19, 2026, as Early Ed Day at the Louisiana State Capitol to honor the Ready Louisiana Coalition. The resolution recognizes the coalition's work in advocating for quality and affordable early childhood education and highlights the importance of early brain development for children's future success. It does not create new laws or programs but serves as a formal commendation and a day of recognition within the state legislature.
This bill designates May 5, 2026, as Chef John Folse Day to honor his contributions to the culinary arts and his promotion of Louisiana's cultural heritage. The resolution recognizes Folse's career achievements, including founding restaurants worldwide, creating television shows, and establishing a culinary institute. It formally commends him for his lifelong dedication to Cajun and Creole cuisine and directs that a copy of the resolution be sent to him.
This bill is a Senate resolution expressing condolences for the death of Tyler Marie Grezaffi, a Louisiana law enforcement officer who passed away in March 2026. The text formally acknowledges her service as a corrections professional and extends sympathy to her surviving family members, including her parents, siblings, and fiancé. The resolution directs that a copy of the statement be sent to the Grezaffi family.
Senate Resolution 113 is a commemorative measure that expresses the Louisiana Senate's condolences for the passing of Martha Elizabeth Odom, a seventeen-year-old student from Lafayette. The resolution honors her life by detailing her artistic achievements in ballet and theater, her leadership roles in school clubs, and her acceptance to the University of the South. It formally acknowledges her contributions and directs a copy of the resolution to her parents, Michael and Brooke Bingham Odom.
Senate Resolution 114 formally recognizes the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) on the occasion of its 75th anniversary. This resolution honors the organization's contributions to maternal health and its representation of over 62,000 healthcare professionals, including more than 700 members in Louisiana. The bill does not create new laws or change existing policies; instead, it serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment and directs that a copy of the resolution be sent to ACOG as a gesture of appreciation.
This bill is a commendation resolution that honors Jensen LeBlanc, an eleven-year-old from Addis, Louisiana, for being named a Children's Miracle Network National Champion. The measure recognizes his personal resilience in overcoming rare breathing difficulties and his role as an ambassador who inspires other children facing medical challenges. By passing this resolution, the Louisiana Senate formally acknowledges his achievements and expresses appreciation for his positive impact on the community. The document also notes that he has already received local honors, including "Jensen LeBlanc Day" and a key to the town of Addis.
