Maddy summaryThis bill updates Louisiana's Public Defender Act to clarify how public defender funds must be used and to establish a judicial district indigent defender fund for expert witnesses. It requires that all state, local, and fund money be used exclusively for representing public defender clients, while also allowing judicial districts to set aside money for expert witness fees that can be accessed by both public defender clients and indigent individuals who hired private counsel. The legislation also outlines specific factors courts must consider when determining if a person qualifies as indigent, such as income, employment history, and dependents, and prohibits court clerks from charging filing fees for appeals or writ applications by those found to be indigent.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summarySB 56 reorganizes Louisiana's flood protection governance by renaming the "Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-West Bank and Lafitte Area Independent Levee District" to "Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-West Bank." It directly affects Jefferson Parish residents within specific geographic boundaries (north of 29°17'52" N and south of 29°47'00" N latitude). Key changes include increasing the board of commissioners from 7 to 9 members, requiring specific geographic representation (e.g., 2 from Jefferson West Bank, 1 from Lafitte Area), and setting term limits. The reorganization takes effect on August 1, 2026, streamlining oversight for flood protection in the region.
Maddy summarySB 259 creates a statewide online portal in Louisiana for filing civil protective orders in domestic violence cases. It allows victims to submit petitions electronically without needing to provide an "affirmation" (a sworn statement), simplifying the process. The portal will be developed by the judicial administrator's office and directly affects individuals seeking protection from domestic abuse. This change streamlines access to legal protection while maintaining the existing legal framework for protective orders.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a concurrent resolution that formally commends Grambling State University for its 125th anniversary. It recognizes the institution's historical contributions to higher education, leadership, and public service in Louisiana and beyond. The resolution does not create new laws or change any policies but serves as an official acknowledgment from the state legislature.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a renaissance district in Rapides Parish, Louisiana, and establishes a seven-member board of commissioners to govern it. The board will include representatives from local government, law enforcement, the district attorney's office, and organizations involved in juvenile justice, with specific requirements for experience in juvenile education, rehabilitation, or incarceration. Commissioners will serve four-year terms and must be residents of the parish who are not employed by the parish police jury. The legislation focuses on restructuring oversight of juvenile detention, education, and rehabilitation services within the parish.
Maddy summarySB 386 creates Louisiana's first comprehensive data privacy law, granting residents the right to opt out of having their personal data shared by businesses. It directly affects Louisiana residents (as "consumers") and businesses collecting their data, requiring companies to provide clear choices about data use. Key provisions include a general opt-out right for data sharing, definitions of personal data (like location and biometrics), and specific protections for sensitive information such as health records. The law applies broadly to businesses processing data on Louisiana residents, not limited to social media platforms as the title suggests.
Maddy summaryHB 380 authorizes Sowela Technical Community College to create a pilot program partnering with local public school systems in Louisiana. The program aims to increase awareness and access to commercial driver's license (CDL), entry-level driver training, and transportation/logistics career programs for students. The partnership requires approval from both Sowela's governing board and the local school board before implementation.
Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution asks the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to study whether it is possible to add hunting, conservation, and shooting sports classes to public school curricula for students in grades five through twelve. The study, which must be completed by March 1, 2027, will explore how these courses could fit into existing physical education programs or be offered as electives, covering topics like firearm safety, wildlife identification, and outdoor survival skills. The bill also considers whether completing such a course could lead to official Hunter Education Certification for students. Ultimately, the resolution directs the state education board and the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to investigate this idea and report their findings to the state legislature.
Maddy summaryThis legislative bill is a concurrent resolution that formally commends Grambling State University for celebrating the 100th anniversary of its Tiger Athletics program. It recognizes the university's century-long history of athletic success, its contributions to the Southwestern Athletic Conference, and the positive impact its sports program has had on student development and Louisiana's heritage. The resolution does not change any laws or policies but serves as an official statement of appreciation from the state legislature.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a concurrent resolution that formally congratulates Grambling State University on the 100th anniversary of its Tiger Marching Band. It recognizes the band's historic contributions to music, education, and Louisiana's cultural heritage since its founding in 1926. The resolution serves as an official commendation from the state legislature and directs a copy to the university president.