Maddy summarySB 180 proposes a constitutional amendment allowing surviving spouses of disabled veterans to transfer their property tax exemption to a new homestead property. Specifically, if a veteran with a service-connected disability (rated 50% or higher by the VA) received an expanded property tax exemption, their surviving spouse can transfer that exemption to a new home they own and occupy - once, and limited to the value claimed on the previous home. The exemption applies to properties where the veteran’s disability rating was 50%-70% (covering $10,000 in value), 70%-100% (covering $12,000), or 100% (covering all value beyond the homestead exemption). The transfer requires verification by the property assessor and is effective January 1, 2027, pending voter approval.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis Louisiana Senate resolution asks the U.S. Congress to provide timely and complete funding for the military that matches the National Defense Authorization Act. The bill specifically targets military personnel and their families in Louisiana, aiming to reduce budget uncertainty that can delay construction, training, and essential services like housing and healthcare. It also requests that the federal government prioritize support for quality of life issues, including compensation and expanded access to fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization. By sending this request to federal lawmakers, the state legislature seeks to ensure stable resources for defense operations and the well-being of service members.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a concurrent resolution that expresses the Louisiana Legislature's condolences to the family and friends of Allyce Trapp Alexander, who passed away in September 2025. The document honors her life, career as a government relations advisor, and her service to the state through a series of statements detailing her personal history and achievements. No new laws or policies are created; the resolution serves solely as a formal tribute to be sent to her husband and parents.
Maddy summarySB 196 shortens the appeal period for Louisiana taxpayers facing local sales and use tax assessments or denied refund claims from a variable timeframe to a fixed 60 calendar days. It directly affects taxpayers who receive notices from the Department of Revenue regarding tax assessments or refund disallowances. The bill amends multiple tax code sections (including 47:337.51, 337.53, 1565, and 1625) to standardize this 60-day window for appealing both assessments and refund claim denials. The change takes effect August 1, 2026, and applies to all affected taxpayers without altering the underlying tax obligations.
Maddy summaryHB 806, titled "Jody's Law," changes how bail is set for hit-and-run driving offenses in Louisiana. It requires courts to use specific factors from criminal procedure law instead of fixed bail amounts. The bill also mandates the Department of Public Safety to create rapid response protocols that immediately notify law enforcement about hit-and-run incidents, including details like vehicle information, injuries, and direction of travel. These protocols aim to speed up investigations and improve accountability for drivers who flee the scene. The law directly affects courts handling hit-and-run cases, law enforcement agencies, and individuals charged with such offenses.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates Monday, May 4, 2026, as Disability Awareness Day at the Louisiana State Capitol to honor individuals with disabilities. The resolution acknowledges the contributions of people with disabilities and recognizes various organizations that advocate for accessibility and inclusion. It does not create new laws or change existing policies but serves as a formal recognition within the state legislature.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates Wednesday, April 29, 2026, as Gulf States Renewable Energy Industries Association Day at the Louisiana State Capitol. It directly honors the Gulf States Renewable Energy Industries Association and its partner, Project Vanguard, by recognizing their work in creating jobs and supporting renewable energy projects in the state. The resolution does not change any laws or policies but serves as a formal commendation to highlight the contributions of these organizations to Louisiana's energy sector.
Maddy summarySB 128 amends Louisiana tax notice procedures to allow the Department of Revenue to send notices to taxpayers using verified addresses obtained from private entities (like credit bureaus or public records) or government sources (including USPS certified software), in addition to the taxpayer's last filed address. This change directly affects taxpayers who may have moved without updating their address with the department, ensuring notices can reach them through updated records. The key mechanism expands the department's address verification options to improve notice delivery accuracy. The bill does not alter tax rates or obligations, only the method for delivering tax-related notices. It applies to multiple tax enforcement processes, including penalty notices, assessments, and collection actions.
Maddy summarySB 139 changes how interest is calculated in personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits against Louisiana's state government or local political subdivisions. It sets the interest rate at the lesser of 6% per year or the standard judicial interest rate, applying from the date a formal legal demand is made until the judge signs the final judgment. This law directly affects plaintiffs in these specific lawsuits by altering the financial compensation they receive for delayed payments. The bill modifies existing law to clarify the interest rate and timing, without changing the underlying legal process.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates the week of May 16 through 23, 2026, as Safe Boating Week in Louisiana to raise awareness about water safety. The resolution encourages residents to follow safe boating practices, such as wearing life jackets and avoiding alcohol while operating a boat, to reduce injuries and fatalities. It highlights that most boating accidents result from human error and notes that the majority of drowning victims were not wearing life vests. The measure is a symbolic gesture aimed at promoting education and responsible behavior among boaters in the state.