Sen. Eddie Lambert

Maddy summaryThis bill is a formal resolution expressing the Louisiana Legislature's condolences to the family of former State Senator Louis J. Lambert Jr. following his death. It honors his extensive public service career, which included roles as a Senate leader, Public Service Commission member, and gubernatorial candidate. The resolution also records the state's gratitude for his contributions and directs a copy of the document to be sent to his family.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a concurrent resolution that expresses the Louisiana Legislature's support for a formal study requested by Senator John N. Kennedy. The study is directed at the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to investigate how land use changes and habitat loss impact migratory waterfowl behavior and populations within the Mississippi Flyway. Specifically, the resolution asks the federal agency to examine variables affecting waterfowl winter distributions, breeding patterns, and related economic outcomes in response to observed population declines in Louisiana. The primary effect of the bill is to formally endorse the request for this research rather than to enact new laws or regulations.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution asks the Louisiana State University Board of Supervisors to rename the LSU Gymnastics Training Center in honor of legendary coach Sara "D-D" Breaux. The bill highlights her four-decade career, during which she transformed the program from a struggling unit into a national powerhouse and built a world-class facility. By formally requesting this name change, the legislature aims to create a permanent tribute to her leadership and legacy within the university community.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Louisiana's boat registration rules to clarify how owners must re-register boats when ownership changes or when registration has expired. It requires new applications with a five-dollar fee and a three-year registration certificate whenever a motorboat, houseboat, or sailboat changes hands. For boats with expired registrations lasting five years or more, the bill allows current owners to apply for new certificates by submitting proof of possession and certified mail notices to previous owners. The changes apply to boat owners and the state commission that issues registration documents.

Maddy summarySB 32 establishes the Perinatal Bereavement Care Initiative within Louisiana's Department of Health to improve support for families experiencing pregnancy loss or infant death. The bill requires hospitals providing maternity care to receive staff training on supporting grieving parents, access to bereavement resources (like counseling referrals), and perinatal bereavement devices. It prioritizes hospitals serving high-risk patients, delivering many babies, or lacking current bereavement resources. The initiative can fund these services using voluntary monies, including federal grants and donations, without imposing new taxes.

Maddy summarySB 204 repeals a provision that previously prohibited nonresidents from obtaining certain commercial fishing gear licenses in Louisiana. This change would allow nonresident commercial fishermen to apply for and receive these licenses, removing a prior barrier. The bill amends Louisiana Revised Statute 56:305 to update its heading and remove the prohibition, while also addressing related licensing matters. The policy change directly affects nonresident commercial fishermen seeking to operate in Louisiana waters.

Maddy summarySB 306 creates a new criminal offense in Louisiana for obstructing freedom of worship at churches or other places of worship. It prohibits specific actions including using force to intimidate attendees, damaging church property, blocking lawful access to the building, or engaging in disruptive activities during scheduled worship services. Violations carry fines up to $25,000 and imprisonment up to 18 months for repeat offenses, with enhanced penalties if bodily injury occurs. The law directly affects individuals who interfere with religious gatherings on private religious property, aiming to protect the orderly conduct of worship as defined by the bill.

Maddy summaryHB 636, the "Caleb Wilson Hazing Prevention Act," requires Louisiana public colleges and universities to prevent, report, and respond to hazing involving student organizations. It defines hazing broadly (including physical brutality, dangerous activities, or substance consumption) and mandates annual hazing education for all students starting fall 2027, plus specific orientation education for new students. The bill also requires student organizations to report hazing incidents to both law enforcement and their institution, and institutions must document all actions and share full details with law enforcement. These provisions directly affect public postsecondary institutions, their students, and all student organizations, including fraternities, sororities, and clubs.

Maddy summaryHB 675 designates a specific section of U.S. Highway 425 in Franklin Parish (from Morgan Street to Louisiana Highway 913) as the "Bill Jewel 'Putt' Linder Memorial Highway" to honor an individual. The bill requires the Louisiana Department of Transportation to install and maintain signage for this designation, but only if local or private funds cover the costs (up to $2,250 per sign) without using state funds. This is a commemorative bill with no policy changes or direct impact on residents, businesses, or transportation regulations. It solely involves naming a highway segment and setting conditions for signage implementation.

Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution formally recognizes Barney Arceneaux on the occasion of his retirement after more than five decades of public service. The document highlights his extensive career, which includes roles as a police chief, mayor of Gonzales, and executive director of the Louisiana Municipal Association. By passing this measure, the Louisiana Legislature expresses appreciation for his leadership and contributions to local government and the state. The bill does not create new laws or policies but serves as an official commendation to honor his achievements.