Rep. Candace Newell

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 558 amends the eligibility requirements for Louisiana's M.J. Foster Promise Program, which provides tuition assistance for college students. The bill adds specific violent and property crimes to the list of offenses that would disqualify applicants, including aggravated battery, second-degree robbery, and aggravated criminal damage to property. These changes directly affect students with certain criminal convictions who seek to qualify for the state-funded tuition program. The bill is currently pending in the Committee on Education after recent committee amendments.

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 summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (HR 234), not a substantive bill. It formally commends Jessica Harvey and The Difference, an all-female gospel ensemble from New Orleans, on their tenth anniversary. The resolution recognizes their contributions to Louisiana's cultural landscape through music, their inspiration to young women, and their representation of the state's musical heritage. It has no policy impact or direct effect on constituents beyond providing symbolic recognition.

Maddy summaryThis bill (HCR 65) is a ceremonial resolution expressing the Louisiana Legislature's condolences on the death of John "Jay" Batt, Jr., a former New Orleans City Council member, businessman, and community leader. It formally honors his life, service, and legacy without creating any new laws or affecting specific policies or groups. The resolution acknowledges his career, family, and contributions to New Orleans, including his time on the City Council and leadership roles in organizations like the Sugar Bowl Committee. As a concurrent resolution, it has no legal effect beyond this symbolic gesture of remembrance.

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.

Maddy summaryHB 174 designates a specific bridge on U.S. 167 in Winn Parish as the "Clayton Horne Memorial Bridge." This bill directly affects the location of the bridge and honors Clayton Horne through its official name. The bill contains no substantive policy changes or funding mechanisms - it solely updates the bridge's official designation. Amendments clarify the reference to the highway as "United States Highway 167" but do not alter the memorial purpose. As a naming resolution, it has no operational or financial impact beyond the ceremonial designation.

Maddy summaryHR 2 establishes the "Freshmen Caucus" for new Louisiana House of Representatives members serving their first term. The resolution formally recognizes these legislators as a distinct group to promote their leadership development and facilitate networking and collaboration. Membership in the caucus lasts for the duration of a member's first term in office. This is a procedural resolution, not a policy bill affecting specific legislation or constituents.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a substantive bill) passed by the Louisiana House of Representatives. It formally commends Robert Francis Prevost on his election as Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S. pope and second American pope. The resolution highlights his New Orleans connections, his background as a missionary in Peru, and his recent papal message. As a symbolic gesture, it does not create any legal obligations or affect policy.

Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution expresses the sincere and heartfelt condolences of the Louisiana Legislature to the family and friends of Arwin Patrick Bascle upon her passing. It also honors her life, legacy, and contributions to the political fabric of Louisiana.