Sen. Stewart Cathey

Maddy summarySB 340 requires tax assessors in 46 specific Louisiana parishes to provide property owners with a permanent registration form for the homestead exemption. This change eliminates the need for homeowners to reapply annually for the exemption, streamlining the process for those who qualify. The bill directly affects homeowners in the listed parishes who currently qualify for the homestead exemption under Louisiana law (R.S. 47:1703). It takes effect upon gubernatorial approval or legislative override of a veto, as specified in Section 2.

Maddy summarySB 65 establishes a formal voting process for converting existing public schools into charter schools in Louisiana. It requires approval from both the school's certified faculty/staff (simple majority of eligible employees) and parents/guardians of enrolled students (simple majority of eligible voters with at least 50% turnout) before conversion. The bill mandates secret ballots for both groups, defines eligibility criteria for voters, and directs the State Board of Education to create rules ensuring fair and transparent elections. This directly affects current public school staff, parents of enrolled students, and the State Board, which must implement the new election procedures. The bill does not change student eligibility for charter schools but sets clear procedural requirements for conversion approvals.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates Tuesday, April 7, 2026, as Coca-Cola Day at the Louisiana State Capitol to honor the company's long history and contributions to the state. It formally commends Coca-Cola UNITED for its economic impact, employment of over 2,300 Louisianians, and various community and environmental initiatives. The resolution serves as a symbolic gesture of appreciation rather than establishing new laws or regulations.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a concurrent resolution expressing the Louisiana Legislature's condolences to the family of Jerry O. Arledge, a former high school football coach from West Monroe. The resolution formally acknowledges Arledge's contributions to high school athletics, noting his coaching career that included leading West Monroe High School to multiple championships and compiling a 104-22-1 record. It also records his honors from the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame in 2021 and directs a copy of the resolution to be sent to his wife, Sally Lytton Arledge.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires automobile insurers in Louisiana to be transparent about repair options and prohibits them from steering customers toward specific repair shops. Insurers must inform policyholders that they can choose their own repair provider and cannot offer discounts or incentives for using preferred shops. Additionally, repair shops must disclose when they use non-original parts and obtain written consent from the customer, while insurers could be held liable if they pressure customers into accepting substandard repairs.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies automobile insurance laws to grant third parties, such as repair shops, the right to request an independent appraisal of vehicle damage costs. Currently, only policyholders can demand this process, but the legislation expands this right to include other interested parties involved in the repair dispute. The mechanism allows these third parties to bypass the insurance company's initial assessment if they disagree with the estimated repair expenses. This change directly affects auto insurers, repair facilities, and consumers who may be involved in disagreements over the cost of fixing a damaged vehicle.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a commendation resolution that formally recognizes Senate President Cameron Henry, Jr. for being selected as the 2026 Irish Grand Marshal in the 44th Annual Irish-Italian Parade in Metairie, Louisiana. The resolution highlights the parade's history since 1983, its role in celebrating Irish and Italian heritage, and the significance of Henry's appointment alongside Italian Grand Marshal Erik Youngblood. The document notes that the parade attracts large crowds and supports local nonprofits, while also mentioning that the LSU Tiger Marching Band led the procession this year. This measure serves as an official expression of appreciation from the Louisiana Senate for Henry's participation in this community event.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution that formally congratulates former Louisiana State Senator Michael A. Walsworth on his seventieth birthday. It recognizes his twenty-four years of public service in the state legislature, including his time representing multiple parishes in both the House and Senate. The resolution commends his contributions to the state and expresses well wishes for his health and future endeavors. It is a ceremonial document with no policy changes or legislative impact.

Maddy summaryHB 83 establishes voting requirements for converting a preexisting public school into a Type 2 charter school in Louisiana. It requires approval from both the school's certified faculty/staff (simple majority vote) and parents/guardians of enrolled students (simple majority plus 50% turnout) via secret ballot. The bill mandates the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to create rules governing these elections to ensure fairness and voter anonymity. These provisions directly affect public schools seeking charter conversion and define the process for obtaining community and staff consent.

Maddy summarySB 138 amends Louisiana law to standardize speed enforcement using automated cameras and pavement markings. It requires local authorities using photo enforcement to place specific yellow signs (reading "Photo enforcement devices at use") 500-1,000 feet before cameras, and to mark school zones with two-foot yellow stripes and "Entering School Zone" pavement markings at entrances, plus "School Zone Ahead" markings 200 feet before entrances. All signage and markings must comply with federal traffic control standards (MUTCD). The bill directly affects local municipalities and parishes that deploy speed cameras, ensuring consistent visual warnings for drivers.