Sen. Royce Duplessis

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 summaryThis resolution directs the state to provide support to the University of New Orleans Transportation Institute for a planning study of the South Claiborne Avenue Link Development. It replaces prior language about the Department of Transportation with specific support for UNO’s efforts, focusing on analyzing transportation needs for the South Claiborne corridor. The resolution was passed by the Senate (SR 89) and is now awaiting final approval.

Maddy summarySR 154 is a resolution creating the Task Force on Ensuring Voter Participation in the Political Process. The task force, composed of 15 members representing state officials, election administrators, and community organizations, will study mechanisms to boost voter turnout - including election consolidation and civic engagement strategies - and submit written recommendations to the legislature by 2026. It directly affects Louisiana voters and election administration by examining factors like frequent elections (which contributed to low 2024 turnout) and local election participation rates. The resolution does not enact new laws but requires the task force to provide actionable proposals before the 2026 legislative session.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 156) that formally commends Louisiana Supreme Court Justice John Michael Guidry for receiving the 2025 David A. Hamilton Lifetime Achievement Award. The resolution recognizes his 27-year judicial service, leadership as the first African American Chief Judge of the First Circuit Court of Appeal, and his lifelong commitment to pro bono legal work benefiting underserved communities. It has no policy impact or effect on laws, regulations, or government operations - it is purely a symbolic honor. The Senate passed it on June 1, 2025, and transmitted a copy to Justice Guidry.

Maddy summarySR 123 is a non-binding Senate Resolution urging Louisiana law enforcement agencies to explore restorative justice approaches in community safety efforts. It specifically requests agencies to prioritize victim-centered methods that emphasize accountability from those causing harm, while noting these approaches may reduce recidivism. The resolution directs copies to key law enforcement and justice leaders (like the State Police superintendent and Sheriffs' Association) but does not create new laws or requirements. It remains a procedural request, not a legislative mandate, and has not yet passed into law.

Maddy summaryHB 202 requires Louisiana public colleges and universities to offer students a voluntary privacy waiver form. This form allows students to authorize their institution to share specific mental health crisis information - such as the nature of the crisis, actions taken (e.g., counseling referrals), and follow-up care recommendations - with designated contacts (like parents or guardians) during a mental health emergency where the student poses a risk to themselves or others. The waiver explicitly states that specific diagnoses or treatment details will not be shared without additional authorization, and students can revoke consent in writing at any time. The policy applies directly to all students at Louisiana’s public postsecondary institutions and their chosen contacts, while maintaining compliance with federal and state privacy laws.

Maddy summaryHB 159 adjusts supervision rules for physical therapists by increasing the maximum number of physical therapist assistants they can supervise from five to six individuals at one time. It also requires physical therapists to conduct a formal review of supervised personnel every sixth treatment day or every thirty days, whichever occurs first. The bill directly affects physical therapists and their assistants in clinical settings by modifying staffing ratios and oversight frequency. This is a procedural change to existing practice standards, not a new program or benefit.

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 summarySCR 51 is a ceremonial resolution commending April Burkholder Coulter for her induction into the 2025 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame. It recognizes her achievements as a former LSU gymnast, highlighting her record of 14 All-American honors, 108 individual event titles, and her 2006 NCAA balance beam championship. The resolution does not create any new laws or affect any policies, programs, or individuals beyond formally honoring her athletic legacy. It was unanimously adopted by the Louisiana Legislature as a symbolic gesture.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SCR 46), not a substantive bill. It formally honors Ed Daniels, a late Louisiana sports journalist, by commending his family for his posthumous receipt of two honors: the 2025 Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism and his 2025 induction into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame. The resolution recognizes Daniels' decades-long career in sports media, including his work at WGNO-TV and his roles with the Sugar Bowl and Saints Hall of Fame committees. It directly affects his family, as the resolution is addressed to them. The resolution passed unanimously in the Senate.