Sen. Bob Hensgens

Maddy summarySB 118 modifies Louisiana's tax code to exclude certain deposits into ABLE accounts (Achieving a Better Life Experience Accounts) from state income tax. Starting in 2026, account owners can exclude up to $2,400 annually (single filers) or $4,800 (joint filers) per beneficiary for qualified disability expenses, with unused amounts rolling over to future years. This applies only to deposits made for beneficiaries with disabilities, excluding the funds from taxable income calculations. The bill directly affects Louisiana residents using ABLE accounts to save for disability-related expenses. It takes effect for tax years beginning January 1, 2026.

Maddy summarySB 29 repeals the legal framework governing the Vermilion Economic Development District in Louisiana by removing specific statutes (R.S. 33:130.561-130.570) from the state code. This directly affects the Vermilion Economic Development District, eliminating its existing statutory authority. The bill becomes effective upon the governor's signature or legislative approval, with no new provisions or mechanisms added.

Maddy summaryThis is a symbolic condolence resolution (SR 155), not a policy bill. It expresses the Louisiana Senate's sincere condolences to the family and friends of Phil Alexander Robertson following his passing on May 25, 2025. The resolution details his life as a Louisiana native, entrepreneur (creator of the "Duck Commander" brand), reality TV figure ("Duck Dynasty"), and community contributor, highlighting his family values and faith. It has no legislative effect or policy changes - it solely serves as a formal expression of sympathy.

Maddy summaryHB 211 modifies Louisiana's tax credit for firearm safety device purchases by clarifying that an "eligible transaction" must involve buying these devices (like gun locks) from a federally licensed dealer who collects sales tax. It explicitly excludes purchases of firearms themselves from qualifying for the credit. The bill applies to tax years starting January 1, 2025, and defines eligibility based on the dealer's licensing and tax collection requirements. This change affects Louisiana taxpayers seeking the credit for safety device purchases, not firearm buyers.

Maddy summarySB 9 expands restrictions on drone use by adding federal and state military installations and facilities to the list of locations where unmanned aircraft systems (drones) are prohibited. This directly affects drone operators, including hobbyists and commercial users, who would now be barred from flying drones near military bases and related facilities. The bill amends existing law to explicitly include these sites in the prohibited zones, updating the legal definition without changing penalty terms. The measure passed unanimously in the Senate and is now moving to the House for further consideration.

Maddy summarySB 38 creates a new criminal offense for stealing gift cards or their redemption information in Louisiana. It specifically targets individuals who take, alter, duplicate, or fraudulently obtain gift cards or redemption details without authorization from the cardholder, issuer, or seller. The law defines key terms like "active" gift cards (with funds loaded) and "redemption information" (needed to use the card's value), and sets penalties including fines and prison time for violations. Offenders must also pay full restitution to victims, with payment plans available if they are indigent. This bill directly affects anyone committing gift card theft or fraud, making these acts punishable under Louisiana law.

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 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 resolution formally commends Sam Houston High School's Lady Broncos softball team for winning the 2025 LHSAA Non-Select Division I State Championship. It recognizes their season record (30 wins, 2 losses), key game moments (including clutch home runs in semifinal and championship games), and the coaching staff's leadership. The resolution specifically honors players, head coach Beth Domingue (her fifth title), and assistant coaches as detailed in the text. As a symbolic gesture, it does not create new policies or affect funding.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SCR 53) that formally commends NFL player Andrew Whitworth for his upcoming induction into the 2025 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame. The resolution highlights his Louisiana roots, high school football championships, college career at LSU, 16-year NFL career with the Bengals and Rams, Super Bowl victory, and charitable work through his foundation. It does not create any new laws, impose obligations, or affect any policies or individuals. The bill's sole purpose is to express the Louisiana Legislature's recognition of Whitworth's achievements and community contributions.