Maddy summarySB 154 criminalizes the possession, distribution, and manufacture of kratom by classifying its active compounds (7-hydroxymitragynine and mitragynine) as Schedule I controlled substances. It directly affects individuals who use or distribute kratom products, with limited exceptions for medical prescriptions under specific state law. The bill imposes fines and prison terms ranging from up to 3 years for small amounts to up to 5 years for larger quantities, while allowing possession of small amounts (under 20 grams) to be punished by fines only. It replaces previous exemptions for kratom and defines "kratom" broadly to include any substance derived from the Mitragyna speciosa plant or containing its active compounds. The law takes effect on August 1, 2025.
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Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution, not a legislative bill with policy provisions. It expresses the Louisiana House of Representatives' condolences on the death of Phil Alexander Robertson, a Duck Commander founder and "Duck Dynasty" star who was a prominent figure in northeast Louisiana. The resolution honors his life, family values, faith, and economic impact through his business, highlighting his 60-year marriage to Kay and his role as a community leader. It has no effect on laws or regulations, serving solely as a symbolic gesture of respect.
Maddy summarySB 190 designates specific road segments in certain parishes to honor fallen law enforcement officers. The bill amends existing road descriptions to clarify the designated sections (e.g., changing "overpass to" to "overpass and"). It has no funding requirements or new obligations - it solely provides a commemorative name for existing roadways. The bill passed unanimously in the Senate (39-0) and is now moving to the House for consideration.
Maddy summaryThis Louisiana House resolution (HR 152) urges the U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary to study the health impacts of imported shrimp. It specifically requests an examination of banned antibiotic and chemical residues found in imported shrimp, based on a 2020 LSU study showing high rates of unsafe substances (like nitrofurantoin in 70% of samples) that could cause liver damage, allergic reactions, and other health issues. The resolution addresses consumers who purchase imported shrimp, as current labeling often fails to disclose sulfites or contaminants. It does not create new laws or regulations but seeks to assess whether existing safety measures are sufficient for the nearly 2 billion pounds of shrimp imported annually. The resolution is non-binding and focuses on factual health concerns identified in existing research.
Maddy summaryHB 508 would provide free parking at Port of New Orleans cruise terminals for Louisiana veterans with a service-connected disability of 50% or more. To qualify, veterans must show proof of disability (via a military honor license plate or VA-certified letter) and Louisiana residency (using a driver's license or ID card). The exemption applies only to designated Port-owned parking lots at cruise terminals, not general parking, and expires after seven days without charge - longer stays incur fees. The bill also requires the Port to publicize this exemption through brochures, websites, and signage. This directly affects eligible disabled veterans using the Port's cruise terminals.
Maddy summaryHB 438 prohibits Louisiana insurance companies from using "institutional advertising expenses" when calculating insurance rates. These expenses are defined as broad marketing not aimed at specific products or consumer decision-making (e.g., general brand campaigns). The bill amends insurance rate regulations to require insurers to exclude such advertising costs from their rate calculations, focusing instead on operational expenses like acquisition and field supervision. This change applies to all insurers operating in Louisiana and takes effect January 1, 2026.
Maddy summaryHB 24 amends Louisiana's Teachers' Retirement System to change the optional retirement plan's contribution rules. It requires teachers enrolled in the optional plan to pay the full annual actuarial cost of participation, rather than a portion. Additionally, the bill establishes that if a teacher elects to switch from the optional plan to the regular retirement plan, their contributions to the optional plan stop after the election month, and they immediately transition to the regular plan with employer contributions resuming. This directly affects current participants in the optional retirement plan who choose to switch or remain in the plan.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SCR 57) passed by the Louisiana State Legislature to express condolences for Steven J. Miguez, a businessman and community member from Iberia Parish, following his death on February 24, 2025. The resolution recognizes his life of service, including founding businesses like Iberia Crew Boat & Marine Service and Miguez Fuel, his competitive shooting achievements, and his family. It has no policy provisions or direct effect on laws or constituents - it solely offers legislative condolences to his family. The resolution was adopted unanimously by the Senate (34-0) and passed through the House without amendments.
Maddy summaryHCR 24 creates a special legislative committee to study the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) and its operations. The bill specifically directs the committee to examine LHSAA's structure and impact on all Louisiana high schools, including public, private, and parochial institutions, as amended throughout the text. This is a procedural resolution (not a law) that establishes a fact-finding body, with no immediate policy changes or direct effects on schools. The committee's work will inform future legislative decisions but does not alter current athletic association rules or funding.
Maddy summaryHB 142 amends the composition of Louisiana's Advisory Council on Historically Black Colleges and Universities by adding the president of the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus Foundation (or their designee) to the council's membership. This procedural bill directly affects the council's structure by expanding who participates in advising state officials on HBCU-related matters. The change modifies the council's membership list without altering substantive policies or funding. The bill passed committee favorably and is now moving toward final passage.