Sen. Mark Abraham

Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurance plans to include alternative imaging methods as options alongside standard mammograms. The law applies to all health coverage plans and ensures these non-mammography screening choices are available to policyholders. By mandating the inclusion of these alternatives, the legislation aims to expand the range of diagnostic tools accessible through insurance coverage. The measure was passed by the Senate and is awaiting further action in the House.

Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution from the Louisiana Legislature urges President Biden's administration to end the temporary pause on approving pending liquefied natural gas export permits. The bill highlights the state's significant economic reliance on the oil and gas industry, which contributes billions in tax revenue and supports thousands of jobs. It argues that halting these approvals could disrupt global supply chains, increase energy costs, and harm national security. The measure does not change any laws but serves as a formal request to the federal government to resume its review of LNG export projects.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the northern bascule section of the U.S. Route 11 Maestri Bridge in St. Tammany Parish as the "Jimmy Buffett 'Changes in Latitude' Memorial Crossing." It directs the Department of Transportation and Development to install and maintain signs for this designation, provided that local or private funds cover the costs of materials and installation, with a limit of $550 per sign. The signage will be placed near the bridge's service building and, if additional funding is available, on the opposite side of the pier to be visible to boats.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the laws regarding coordinated retail robberies to clarify how penalties are applied. It specifically increases prison sentences for second-degree robbery, mandating a minimum of three years and a maximum of forty years at hard labor. The legislation also raises the minimum sentence to five years for repeat offenders convicted within ten years and adds five consecutive years without parole for those who use a firearm during the crime. These changes directly affect individuals charged with robbery and the courts that determine their sentencing.

Maddy summaryThis bill adds Tianeptine to Schedule I of Louisiana's Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law. By doing so, it classifies the substance as a drug with no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse, making its possession, sale, and distribution illegal under state law. The change applies to Tianeptine in any form, including its salts and isomers, unless it is part of a pharmaceutical product approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This legislative action directly affects individuals who manufacture, distribute, or possess the substance and law enforcement officers who enforce these regulations.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development to use any extra money or credits earned from the I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge project for specific purposes. The funds can only be used to lower or cancel planned toll increases on the bridge, shorten the project's contract term, or build other infrastructure projects in five specific parishes. Before spending these funds, the department must notify and consult with local legislative representatives from the affected areas and obtain approval from a state transportation committee.

Maddy summaryThis Louisiana Senate Concurrent Resolution asks the U.S. Congress to organize a special meeting of state representatives to propose a change to the Constitution. The goal of this proposed change would be to set a maximum number of terms that members of the House of Representatives and the Senate can serve. To make this happen, the resolution directs state officials to send copies of the request to federal leaders and other state governments to help reach the required number of states. If enough states join this effort, Congress would be obligated to hold the meeting to consider adding a term limit rule to the Constitution.

Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution expresses the Louisiana Legislature's intent that laws regarding sexual abuse of minors should not have time limits on when victims can file lawsuits. It specifically addresses a recent court ruling that declared previous attempts to revive expired claims unconstitutional, arguing that such time limits do not create permanent rights for the accused. The bill asserts that the state has a legitimate interest in addressing child abuse by allowing victims to seek justice regardless of how much time has passed since the abuse occurred. Ultimately, it serves as a formal legislative statement supporting the removal of expiration dates for these specific legal claims.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a concurrent resolution that formally commends Dr. Daryl V. Burckel on his retirement as president of McNeese State University. It highlights his extensive background at the university, including his time as a student-athlete and faculty member, as well as his leadership during significant challenges like the pandemic and natural disasters. The resolution also acknowledges his broader civic contributions and military service while expressing appreciation for his tenure. Ultimately, the measure serves as an official statement of gratitude from the Louisiana Legislature rather than establishing new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a resolution expressing the Louisiana Senate's condolences for the passing of former State Senator James David Cain. It acknowledges his long career in public service, which included serving in the state House and Senate and holding various committee leadership roles. The document highlights his legislative achievements, such as introducing the first hazardous waste regulation bill, and honors his personal legacy as a coach, educator, and community leader. Ultimately, the resolution formally extends sympathy to Cain's family and friends while recognizing his contributions to the state.