Sen. Bill Wheat

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits state and local officials from issuing coastal use permits for new construction or development projects on Lake Maurepas. The law specifically blocks permits for building structures like piers or landfills, as well as for dredging, while still allowing exceptions for repairing existing pipelines or maintaining current infrastructure. By restricting these permits, the legislation aims to prevent additional development in the area, though it does not address the financial costs associated with enforcing these new rules.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a concurrent resolution expressing the Louisiana Legislature's condolences to the family of Dr. Norman C. Francis following his death on February 18, 2026. It honors his life as a civil rights advocate, educator, and community leader who served as president of Xavier University for 47 years and played a key role in rebuilding Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina. The resolution formally acknowledges his legacy and directs a copy of the document to be sent to his family.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates Saturday, March 21, 2026, as World Down Syndrome Day at the Louisiana State Capitol. It recognizes the annual observance of this day, which honors individuals with Down syndrome and raises awareness about the condition. The resolution also commends the Down Syndrome Awareness Group and the Buddy Walk events held throughout Louisiana for their advocacy and community support efforts. This is a ceremonial measure that does not change laws or require funding, but instead acknowledges the contributions of people with Down syndrome to society.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution expressing condolences to the family of former Louisiana State Senator Robert W. "Bob" Kostelka, who passed away on January 10, 2026. The resolution formally acknowledges his legacy of public service as a district attorney, judge, and legislator, while also recognizing his contributions to his community and family. It does not create new laws or policy changes but serves as an official statement of respect from the Louisiana Senate. The document will be sent to Kostelka's family as a gesture of appreciation for his life and career.

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 designates Tuesday, April 7, 2026, as Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival Day at the Louisiana State Capitol to recognize the annual event in Tangipahoa Parish. The resolution highlights the festival's role in supporting local strawberry farmers, raising funds for charitable organizations, and celebrating the region's agricultural heritage. It formally acknowledges the festival's history, economic impact, and the contributions of its 2026 organizers and participants, including the festival royalty and leadership team.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates March 16, 2026, as Amite Oyster Festival Day at the Louisiana State Capitol to honor the event's 50th anniversary. It recognizes the festival's historical, cultural, and economic importance to the city of Amite and Tangipahoa Parish since it began in 1976. The resolution commends the festival's role in celebrating local heritage, supporting tourism, and fostering community pride through its various activities and traditions. No new laws or funding are created; the measure serves as a formal acknowledgment of the festival's legacy.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates Tuesday, March 17, 2026, as Louisiana Professional Surveyors Day at the state Capitol to honor the Louisiana Society of Professional Surveyors. It recognizes the contributions of land surveyors in protecting property rights, supporting economic development, and promoting the surveying profession in Louisiana. The resolution also acknowledges National Surveyors Week, which occurs each March to highlight the work of professional land surveyors nationwide. This is a commemorative measure that does not change laws or create new regulations, but rather formally recognizes the profession's importance to the state.

Maddy summarySB 63 prohibits the construction of carbon dioxide pipelines within three specific Louisiana wildlife management areas: Maurepas Swamp, Joyce, and Manchac. The bill directly affects developers or companies seeking to build such pipelines in these protected zones. It creates a legal barrier by explicitly banning pipeline construction for carbon dioxide transport in these locations, regardless of other applicable laws. The measure aims to protect these ecologically sensitive areas from potential pipeline-related disruptions.

Maddy summarySB 60, the Louisiana Landowners Protection Act, prohibits private companies from using eminent domain (government power to seize private land) to build carbon dioxide pipelines or storage facilities without a landowner's consent. It directly affects landowners whose property might be targeted for CO2 infrastructure projects, requiring companies to negotiate agreements rather than force access. Key provisions repeal existing laws allowing expropriation for CO2 pipelines and storage, remove the state secretary's authority to issue permits for such projects, and prohibit any prior permits from granting eminent domain rights. The bill shifts policy to prioritize landowner consent for CO2 transportation and storage activities, aligning with Louisiana's stated goal of protecting individual property rights.