by Sheila McCant, Public Information Officer
Speaker Jim Tucker addressed the annual
meeting of the Louisiana Association
of Business and Industry (LABI) this
week and discussed past successes and future
challenges.
The Speaker said, “The national recession
finally came to Louisiana, and it
shows up in our challenges.” He also said
the main focus of the upcoming session
will be the budget, particularly the $1 billion
shortfall the state will face when the
fiscal year begins on July 1.
An overview of the Speaker’s address
can be found here.
January 15, 2010
October 02, 2009
Redistricting Workshop A Success
by Sheila McCant, Public Information Officer
Legislative chairmen of the House and Senate Governmental Affairs committees are calling the two-day educational training workshop on redistricting a success.
Sen. Bob Kostelka and Rep. Rick Gallot said 21 of the 29 committee members participated in the workshop and spent the first day being briefed on demographics, the census and redistricting law, how state population has shifted, and how this will affect districts by House and Senate senior staff.
The majority of the first day was spent on a redistricting exercise led by Tim Storey and John Guthrie of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), a non-partisan organization of state legislatures that has conducted similar seminars around the country.
Storey and Guthrie, national redistricting experts, used a prior redistricting case from Jacksonville, Florida to outline the law, court cases, and legal requirements that are part of the redistricting process.
The exercise divided participants into two groups with the charge of adopting a redistricting plan based on provided information.
On Friday, the members concluded the exercise, with a spokesperson for each group presenting their completed plans. A vote was taken to determine which of the two plans they preferred. They then discussed the adopted plan, and the reasons why they considered it the best of the two.
Workshop presenters said the exercise was a learning tool designed to familiarize members with how difficult choices are and the many numbers of variables that have to be weighed in creating a valid redistricting plan.
With the Census kicking off next April, Louisiana will be fighting the clock to complete redistricting for the 2011 elections. Official census numbers are expected to be available in February, 2011, with the regular legislative session beginning on April 25. This will give the legislature a few short months to complete the redistricting process before qualifying for general elections takes place in September. Further, Louisiana, as well as 15 other states, must have its redistricting plans pre-approved by the U. S. Justice Department.
"Redistricting is of the utmost importance to our citizens and our state," Gallot said. "With so many of our committee members new to the legislature and unfamiliar with redistricting, it is imperative they have the information necessary to make informed, educated decisions. This workshop was the beginning of this educational process."
The next step is for the House and Senate Governmental Affairs committees to hold nine joint regional public meetings around the state to explain the process of redistricting and to raise awareness of the importance of every citizen participating in the census. The meetings are tentatively planned to begin later this Fall and will include stops in Shreveport, Monroe, Alexandria, Lake Charles, Lafayette, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Thibodaux, and the North Shore.
Due to the lack of population growth over the last 10 years, Louisiana is expected to lose a congressional seat. Current estimates suggest that federal and state districts will change due to the population shifts in the state, including those resulting from the hurricanes in 2005.
Legislative chairmen of the House and Senate Governmental Affairs committees are calling the two-day educational training workshop on redistricting a success.
Sen. Bob Kostelka and Rep. Rick Gallot said 21 of the 29 committee members participated in the workshop and spent the first day being briefed on demographics, the census and redistricting law, how state population has shifted, and how this will affect districts by House and Senate senior staff.
The majority of the first day was spent on a redistricting exercise led by Tim Storey and John Guthrie of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), a non-partisan organization of state legislatures that has conducted similar seminars around the country.
Storey and Guthrie, national redistricting experts, used a prior redistricting case from Jacksonville, Florida to outline the law, court cases, and legal requirements that are part of the redistricting process.
The exercise divided participants into two groups with the charge of adopting a redistricting plan based on provided information.
On Friday, the members concluded the exercise, with a spokesperson for each group presenting their completed plans. A vote was taken to determine which of the two plans they preferred. They then discussed the adopted plan, and the reasons why they considered it the best of the two.
Workshop presenters said the exercise was a learning tool designed to familiarize members with how difficult choices are and the many numbers of variables that have to be weighed in creating a valid redistricting plan.
With the Census kicking off next April, Louisiana will be fighting the clock to complete redistricting for the 2011 elections. Official census numbers are expected to be available in February, 2011, with the regular legislative session beginning on April 25. This will give the legislature a few short months to complete the redistricting process before qualifying for general elections takes place in September. Further, Louisiana, as well as 15 other states, must have its redistricting plans pre-approved by the U. S. Justice Department.
"Redistricting is of the utmost importance to our citizens and our state," Gallot said. "With so many of our committee members new to the legislature and unfamiliar with redistricting, it is imperative they have the information necessary to make informed, educated decisions. This workshop was the beginning of this educational process."
The next step is for the House and Senate Governmental Affairs committees to hold nine joint regional public meetings around the state to explain the process of redistricting and to raise awareness of the importance of every citizen participating in the census. The meetings are tentatively planned to begin later this Fall and will include stops in Shreveport, Monroe, Alexandria, Lake Charles, Lafayette, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Thibodaux, and the North Shore.
Due to the lack of population growth over the last 10 years, Louisiana is expected to lose a congressional seat. Current estimates suggest that federal and state districts will change due to the population shifts in the state, including those resulting from the hurricanes in 2005.
March 04, 2009
Tax Amnesty Proposal
By: Public Information Office Staff
A proposal by the governor for a two-month tax amnesty period during Fiscal Year 2009-2010 could mean up to $150 million in back tax collections for the state if previous tax amnesty programs are any indication. The last program—conducted in 2001—collected more than $192 million in back taxes. About $300 million in tax collections and interest since then remain outstanding.
The proposed amnesty program would cover all tax periods since the last amnesty–July 1, 2001, through December 30, 2008. During the proposed two-month amnesty period, the state would waive all penalties owed on unpaid taxes and half of the accrued interest for any taxpayer who pays 100% of the owed tax and the remaining 50% of the owed interest.
Eligible taxpayers for this amnesty period would include those with an existing tax liability, those who did not file a required return or report, and those who understated or omitted any tax liability on a filed return.
The tax amnesty would not apply to motor fuel inspection fees, inspection and supervision fees collected on behalf of the Public Service Commission, motor fuels taxes, or penalties not associated with a tax. The program would exclude taxpayers under criminal investigation by the Department of Revenue and taxpayers against whom a civil fraud penalty has already been asserted.
The proposed tax amnesty program would generate one-time revenue and would not affect the 2009-2010 operating budget.
Legislation to enact the program will be proposed during the 2009 Regular Legislative Session.
A proposal by the governor for a two-month tax amnesty period during Fiscal Year 2009-2010 could mean up to $150 million in back tax collections for the state if previous tax amnesty programs are any indication. The last program—conducted in 2001—collected more than $192 million in back taxes. About $300 million in tax collections and interest since then remain outstanding.
The proposed amnesty program would cover all tax periods since the last amnesty–July 1, 2001, through December 30, 2008. During the proposed two-month amnesty period, the state would waive all penalties owed on unpaid taxes and half of the accrued interest for any taxpayer who pays 100% of the owed tax and the remaining 50% of the owed interest.
Eligible taxpayers for this amnesty period would include those with an existing tax liability, those who did not file a required return or report, and those who understated or omitted any tax liability on a filed return.
The tax amnesty would not apply to motor fuel inspection fees, inspection and supervision fees collected on behalf of the Public Service Commission, motor fuels taxes, or penalties not associated with a tax. The program would exclude taxpayers under criminal investigation by the Department of Revenue and taxpayers against whom a civil fraud penalty has already been asserted.
The proposed tax amnesty program would generate one-time revenue and would not affect the 2009-2010 operating budget.
Legislation to enact the program will be proposed during the 2009 Regular Legislative Session.
SPECIAL LEGISLATIVE ELECTIONS
By: Sheila McCant, Public Information Officer
Qualifying ended February 13 to fill the vacancies in state House District 97 and Senate District 24.
In House District 97, six candidates qualified to fill the vacancy created by the election of former House member J. P. Morrell to the state Senate. They are Jared Brossett, Oliver "Vishop OC: Coleman, Leroy Doucette, Ambrose Pratt, "Nik" Richard, and Dalton Savwoir. All candidates are Democrats with the exception of Coleman who is a Republican.
Five candidates qualified to run for the Senate seat vacated by Don Cravins, Jr. They are the former senator's mother, Patricia "Pat" Cravins, state Rep. Elbert Guillory, Quincy Richard, Jr., Lincoln "Link" Savoie, and Kelly Scott. Mr. Savoie is the only Republican in the race. The remaining candidates are Democrats.
Former Senator Cravins resigned to serve as director of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship in Washington, D.C.
The primary election date for both legislative seats is Saturday, April 4, with the general election on Saturday, May 2.
Qualifying ended February 13 to fill the vacancies in state House District 97 and Senate District 24.
In House District 97, six candidates qualified to fill the vacancy created by the election of former House member J. P. Morrell to the state Senate. They are Jared Brossett, Oliver "Vishop OC: Coleman, Leroy Doucette, Ambrose Pratt, "Nik" Richard, and Dalton Savwoir. All candidates are Democrats with the exception of Coleman who is a Republican.
Five candidates qualified to run for the Senate seat vacated by Don Cravins, Jr. They are the former senator's mother, Patricia "Pat" Cravins, state Rep. Elbert Guillory, Quincy Richard, Jr., Lincoln "Link" Savoie, and Kelly Scott. Mr. Savoie is the only Republican in the race. The remaining candidates are Democrats.
Former Senator Cravins resigned to serve as director of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship in Washington, D.C.
The primary election date for both legislative seats is Saturday, April 4, with the general election on Saturday, May 2.
February 11, 2009
Improved Ballot Systems Needed To Provide For Overseas Military Voting
By: Office of Public Information Staff
A new report released last month concludes that half the states need to improve their ballot systems to give overseas military time to vote.
The report, "Make Voting Work," found that 16 states and the District of Columbia do not give overseas military personnel enough time to vote, and another three states cut it so closely that their ballots are also at risk. In Alabama, which needs the longest time among states to send and receive ballots, it takes 88 days to cast an overseas military vote. Alabama requires three mailings: first, from a soldier requesting a ballot, again when the state sends it, and once more to send in the ballot.
The states that process an overseas military vote in the shortest time are Arizona, Kansas, New Mexico and Rhode Island, with just eight days needed to complete the voting process, according to the report. These states are among 19 that allow completed ballots to be returned by fax or e-mail.
To read the full report online, go to this link .
A new report released last month concludes that half the states need to improve their ballot systems to give overseas military time to vote.
The report, "Make Voting Work," found that 16 states and the District of Columbia do not give overseas military personnel enough time to vote, and another three states cut it so closely that their ballots are also at risk. In Alabama, which needs the longest time among states to send and receive ballots, it takes 88 days to cast an overseas military vote. Alabama requires three mailings: first, from a soldier requesting a ballot, again when the state sends it, and once more to send in the ballot.
The states that process an overseas military vote in the shortest time are Arizona, Kansas, New Mexico and Rhode Island, with just eight days needed to complete the voting process, according to the report. These states are among 19 that allow completed ballots to be returned by fax or e-mail.
To read the full report online, go to this link .
February 04, 2009
Tucker Appoints Cromer Vice Chair of Civil Law Committee in Lorusso's Absence
By: Sheila McCant, Public Information Officer
House Speaker Jim Tucker today appointed state Rep. George Gregory Cromer as the temporary vice chairman of the House Civil Law and Procedure Committee.
Cromer will serve while state Rep. Nick Lorusso, who has been ordered to active duty in the U.S. Army Reserves, is out of state.
Lorusso has served as vice chair of the committee since last year. Cromer is a member of the committee.
House Speaker Jim Tucker today appointed state Rep. George Gregory Cromer as the temporary vice chairman of the House Civil Law and Procedure Committee.
Cromer will serve while state Rep. Nick Lorusso, who has been ordered to active duty in the U.S. Army Reserves, is out of state.
Lorusso has served as vice chair of the committee since last year. Cromer is a member of the committee.
Gregory Ernst to Temporarily Replace Lorusso
State Rep. Nick Lorusso (left) congratulates Gregory Ernst after the House & Governmental Affairs Committee recommended he temporarily replace Lorusso as the District 94 representative during Lorusso's tour of active duty in the Army Reserves.
By: Sheila McCant, Public Information Officer
House Speaker Jim Tucker today accepted the recommendation of the House & Governmental Affairs Committee and appointed Gregory Ernst to temporarily replace state Rep. Nick Lorusso who has been ordered to active duty by the U.S. Army.
Tucker said, " I have accepted the recommendation of the House & Governmental Affairs Committee and am appointing Gregory Ernst as Rep. Lorusso's temporary replacement. This was a win-win situation in that all three nominees were extremely qualified and I want to thank them all for their willingness to serve."
" It is important that the citizens of District 94 continue to have representation while Rep. Lorusso takes his public service a step farther and serves his country in the war on terrorism. I look forward to working with Mr. Ernst and believe he will serve his district well during Rep. Lorusso's absence."
"I also would like to commend Rep. Lorusso for his service to his country and wish him the best of luck during his active duty."
Ernst, a graduate of Harvard College and Tulane Law School, is a partner in the law firm of Peuler & Ernst, specializing in Admiralty and Maritime Law. He previously served as a staff attorney with the National Law Center on Homelessness and the Louisiana Mental Health Advocacy Service. He also served as a Summer Fellow for the Louisiana Department of Justice in the Environmental Enforcement section. He is a member of the Louisiana Association of Defense Counsel.
In accordance with Constitutional Amendment No. 3 (Act 931 of the 2008 Regular Session) which was approved by voters last November,a legislator ordered to active duty in the armed forces for a period of 180 days or more is to submit the names of at least three nominees to be his temporary successor to the presiding officer of the house of the legislature of which he is a member.
The nominees must meet the qualifications and eligibility requirements of legislators, i.e. be at least 18 years of age, a registered voter, a Louisiana resident for at least two years, and a resident of the legislative district he will represent for at least one year prior to running for office. Immediate family members of legislators cannot be nominated or chosen to serve in this capacity.
All three nominees signed affidavits with the Clerk of the House prior to the House & Governmental Affairs Committee meeting stating they met the constitutional requirements.
Lorusso submitted the names of Gregory L. Ernst, Thomas G. Fierke, and Steven L. Pettus as nominees. Mr. Ernst and Mr. Pettus were interviewed by the House & Governmental Affairs Committee today. Mr. Fierke was unable to attend due to a conflict and Mr. Lorusso presented his biographical information.
The committee unanimously recommended Mr. Ernst as Lorusso's temporary replacement.
Lorusso, a Lieutenant Colonel in the JAG Corps Reserves, will serve as the Deputy Staff Judge Advocate for the Army's I Corps at Fort Lewis in the state of Washington in support of the Global War on Terrorism. He reports to active duty February 9, 2009.
Ernst has seven days after Lorusso begins active duty to take the oath of office.
Economic Development Reports 2008 Successes and 2009 Outlook
by: Office of Public Information Staff
The Louisiana Department of Economic Development (DED) released a report last month including economic highlights from 2008 and an economic outlook for 2009. Commenting on the report, DED Secretary Stephen Moret said, "Louisiana improved its position in numerous national rankings while Gov. Bobby Jindal and the Legislature implemented significant policy changes to position Louisiana for a brighter economic future. Thanks to these changes and our state's recent economic performance, Louisiana's position in several major national rankings will improve next year."
Despite national economic trends, Louisiana experienced record economic development last year. Louisiana outperformed both the South and the U.S. as a whole with an increase in total employment, low unemployment rates, and a healthy real estate market expected to maintain home values well into 2010. In fact, the only significant monthly decline in employment occurred in September as a result of Hurricanes Gustav and Ike. Also in 2008, Louisiana's soon-to-be fifth Fortune 1000 company announced plans to move its corporate headquarters to the state, while another company expanded to become Louisiana's third Fortune 500 company.
The DED cautions, however, that decreases in oil revenue in 2009 could offset gains in other sectors. The report enumerates steps the DED will take to help maintain the strength of the state's economy. The full report can be viewed in PDF format here.
The Louisiana Department of Economic Development (DED) released a report last month including economic highlights from 2008 and an economic outlook for 2009. Commenting on the report, DED Secretary Stephen Moret said, "Louisiana improved its position in numerous national rankings while Gov. Bobby Jindal and the Legislature implemented significant policy changes to position Louisiana for a brighter economic future. Thanks to these changes and our state's recent economic performance, Louisiana's position in several major national rankings will improve next year."
Despite national economic trends, Louisiana experienced record economic development last year. Louisiana outperformed both the South and the U.S. as a whole with an increase in total employment, low unemployment rates, and a healthy real estate market expected to maintain home values well into 2010. In fact, the only significant monthly decline in employment occurred in September as a result of Hurricanes Gustav and Ike. Also in 2008, Louisiana's soon-to-be fifth Fortune 1000 company announced plans to move its corporate headquarters to the state, while another company expanded to become Louisiana's third Fortune 500 company.
The DED cautions, however, that decreases in oil revenue in 2009 could offset gains in other sectors. The report enumerates steps the DED will take to help maintain the strength of the state's economy. The full report can be viewed in PDF format here.
January 29, 2009
Tax News
by Office of Public Information Staff
Act 396 of 2008, which repeals the "Stelly Tax Plan", became effective January 1, 2009. This means lower state income taxes for some taxpayers. These changes apply to 2009 Individual Income Tax Returns filed no later than May 15, 2010. The La. Dept. of Revenue will issue revised tax withholding tables for employers to begin using July 1, 2009. However, for those citizens who wish to reduce their state tax withholding immediately, the La. Dept. of Revenue has posted a 2009 State Income Tax Estimator on their Web site. Taxpayers may complete the Temporary Employee Exemption Certificate L-4 Form to reduce their income tax withholding immediately. Taxpayers who do so may need to complete a revised L-4 once employers implement the new tax tables on July 1, 2009, to make sure that the correct amount of state income tax is withheld for 2009.
In previous years, the Louisiana Department of Revenue provided an automatic extension to any Louisiana resident granted a federal tax extension. For 2009 and succeeding years, taxpayers needing an extension to file their state returns must request one via the department Web site or by completing the Application for Extension of Time to File Louisiana Individual Income Tax, Form R-2868, no later than the filing due date. The individual income tax filing due date for 2009 is May 15th for those filing 2008 calendar year income tax returns or, for fiscal filers, the 15th day of the fifth month after the close of the fiscal year. Extensions allow an additional six months to file a return but do not offer more time to pay any tax due. Late payments, as always, are subject to interest and penalties.
Act 396 of 2008, which repeals the "Stelly Tax Plan", became effective January 1, 2009. This means lower state income taxes for some taxpayers. These changes apply to 2009 Individual Income Tax Returns filed no later than May 15, 2010. The La. Dept. of Revenue will issue revised tax withholding tables for employers to begin using July 1, 2009. However, for those citizens who wish to reduce their state tax withholding immediately, the La. Dept. of Revenue has posted a 2009 State Income Tax Estimator on their Web site. Taxpayers may complete the Temporary Employee Exemption Certificate L-4 Form to reduce their income tax withholding immediately. Taxpayers who do so may need to complete a revised L-4 once employers implement the new tax tables on July 1, 2009, to make sure that the correct amount of state income tax is withheld for 2009.
In previous years, the Louisiana Department of Revenue provided an automatic extension to any Louisiana resident granted a federal tax extension. For 2009 and succeeding years, taxpayers needing an extension to file their state returns must request one via the department Web site or by completing the Application for Extension of Time to File Louisiana Individual Income Tax, Form R-2868, no later than the filing due date. The individual income tax filing due date for 2009 is May 15th for those filing 2008 calendar year income tax returns or, for fiscal filers, the 15th day of the fifth month after the close of the fiscal year. Extensions allow an additional six months to file a return but do not offer more time to pay any tax due. Late payments, as always, are subject to interest and penalties.
January 28, 2009
Lorusso Provides List of Potential Temporary Replacements
PHOTO: State Rep. Nick Lorusso (right) greets Shreveport native, General Charles Campbell after his address to the House of Reps. during the 2007 Regular Session. Lorusso, a Lieutenant Colonel in the JAG Corps Reserves has been ordered to active duty beginning February 9.
by Sheila McCant, Public Information Officer
Louisiana State Representative Nick Lorusso (R-New Orleans), who has been ordered to active duty by the U.S. Army, has submitted a list of nominees to temporarily replace him during his year of military duty.
State Constitutional Amendment No. 3 (Act 931 of the 2008 Regular Session)which was approved by voters last November, calls for a legislator ordered to active duty in the armed forces for a period of 180 days or more to submit the names of at least three nominees to be his temporary successor to the presiding officer of the house of the legislature of which he is a member. The nominees must meet the qualifications and eligibility required of legislators, i.e., be at least 18 years of age, a registered voter, a Louisiana resident for at least two years, and a resident of the legislative district he will represent for at least one year prior to running for office. Immediate family members of legislators cannot be nominated or chosen to serve in this capacity.
Rep. Lorusso has provided the following nominees to Speaker of the House Jim Tucker:
Gregory L. Ernst, 44 – graduated from Jesuit High School, summa cum laude; Harvard College, cum laude, with a degree in Russian Studies; and Tulane University Law School; currently a partner in the law firm of Peuler & Ernst, specializing in Admiralty and Maritime Law; previously served as a staff attorney with the National Law Center on Homelessness and the Louisiana Mental Health Advocacy Service; served as a Summer Fellow for the Louisiana Department of Justice in the Environmental Enforcement Section; member of the Louisiana Association of Defense Counsel; Languages: Spanish and Russian.
Thomas G. Fierke, 60 – graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Metallurgical Engineering and Minnesota Law School; earned an LL.M. in Taxation from Boston University Law School and graduated from the U.S. Army War College; currently serves as General Counsel for Lockheed Martin, Michoud Operations; Retired Colonel, U.S. Army Reserves, Special Forces and JAG Corps, including service in Tehran, Iran and Kuwait; board member of Greater New Orleans, Inc., City Park Board of Commissioners, Mayor’s Military Advisory Committee, and New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation.
Steven L. Pettus, 49 - graduated from Millsaps College with a degree in Business and Loyola University Law School, with honors; currently serves as Managing Partner of Dickie Brennan & Company (comprising Palace Café, Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse, and The Bourbon House); Chairman of the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau; board member of the New Orleans Chapter of the Louisiana Restaurant Association, French Quarter–Marigny Historic Area Management District, French Quarter Festivals, Inc., and Christian Brother’s Foundation; named one of 2008’s Role Models by the Young Leadership Council.
“I believe I have provided the Speaker with three outstanding individuals with solid academic credentials and proven community service,” Lorusso said. “I am certain District 94 will be well represented in Baton Rouge no matter which one of the three nominees the Speaker selects.”
The list of nominees has also been provided to the Chairman of the House & Governmental Affairs Committee, Rep. Rick Gallot. The committee will meet on February 4, 2009, to interview the nominees and make a recommendation to the Speaker. The Speaker of the House will then have the authority to select one of the three nominees to serve in Rep. Lorusso’s place while he is on active military duty.
Lorusso, a Lieutenant Colonel in the JAG Corps Reserves, will serve as the Deputy Staff Judge Advocate for the Army’s I Corps at Fort Lewis in Washington State in support of the Global War on Terrorism. He will report on February 9, 2009.
Hurricane Recovery News
by: Office of Public Information Staff
Earlier this month, the Louisiana House and Senate approved the Louisiana Recovery Authority's (LRA) plan to spend federal recovery dollars. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has already allocated $438 million in federal Community Development Block Grant funds to Louisiana for recovery after Hurricanes Gustav and Ike, and the state expects to receive up to $800 million in total.
According to the approved plan, about one-fourth of the monies would be handled at the state level, and the remainder would be divided among affected parishes according to the levels of damage sustained using HUD data.
State-level projects for the funds would focus on providing for affordable rental housing, agriculture and fisheries recovery, and coastal restoration and flood protection.
Also this month, HUD rejected two proposed changes to the way the state allocates money through The Road Home program. The LRA had proposed that program participants be paid up to $7,500 for "individual mitigation measures"—home improvements such as storm shutters to protect rebuilt homes from future damage. HUD indicated that it would likely approve such a program as long as it still limited total awards to the current $150,000 cap.
The other rejected change would have used in all cases the highest appraised value of an applicant's home to calculate awards. The highest appraised value is already used in all appeal cases. HUD worried that this change could increase fraud.
Earlier this month, the Louisiana House and Senate approved the Louisiana Recovery Authority's (LRA) plan to spend federal recovery dollars. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has already allocated $438 million in federal Community Development Block Grant funds to Louisiana for recovery after Hurricanes Gustav and Ike, and the state expects to receive up to $800 million in total.
According to the approved plan, about one-fourth of the monies would be handled at the state level, and the remainder would be divided among affected parishes according to the levels of damage sustained using HUD data.
State-level projects for the funds would focus on providing for affordable rental housing, agriculture and fisheries recovery, and coastal restoration and flood protection.
Also this month, HUD rejected two proposed changes to the way the state allocates money through The Road Home program. The LRA had proposed that program participants be paid up to $7,500 for "individual mitigation measures"—home improvements such as storm shutters to protect rebuilt homes from future damage. HUD indicated that it would likely approve such a program as long as it still limited total awards to the current $150,000 cap.
The other rejected change would have used in all cases the highest appraised value of an applicant's home to calculate awards. The highest appraised value is already used in all appeal cases. HUD worried that this change could increase fraud.
August 27, 2008
CIVIC EDUCATION EFFORT STARTS IN SEPTEMBERLouisiana's Legislators Back to School Program is ready to roll for the ninth year. Since 2000, Louisiana Representatives and Senators have participated actively in this premier civic education program, sponsored by the National Conference of State Legislatures' Trust for Representative Democracy. The program gives legislators in all fifty states the chance to meet their young constituents personally, in the classrooms of their districts – to talk about what it's like to be a state legislator, to share ideas, to listen to concerns, and to impart a greater understanding of the legislative process. Legislators and students interact in informal discussions, participate in mock legislative sessions or simulated public hearings, and even draft bills together. Kickoff week is the third week in September, but members can engage in the program at any time during the school year. Veteran staff members coordinate the program and stand ready to help legislators with scheduling school visits, media alerts, class materials, and suggestions for interacting with students. Teachers, parents, and students can contact these coordinators as well, in order to match their school with their legislator and invite them to "join the class."
On August 21, Representative Patricia Smith and Senate President Pro Tem Sharon Broome made a presentation to the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) about the program and received the board's formal endorsement. State Superintendent of Education Paul Pastorek asked to "tag along" on some classroom visits to observe this civic education program first-hand.For more information, visit the National Conference of State Legislators' Back to School home page at http://www.ncsl.org/public/backsch.htm
May 08, 2008
Rep. Don Cazayoux Elected to Congress
State Representative Don Cazayoux, D-New Roads, won election on Saturday, May 3, 2008, to the vacancy in the sixth congressional district of Louisiana caused by the resignation of former United States Representative Richard Baker, R-Baton Rouge, on February 2. Cazayoux represented the 18th Louisiana House District since 2000. He defeated State Representative Michael Jackson in the Democratic runoff election in April of 2008 to become the Democratic Party's candidate for the May 3 general election. Running against candidates from the Republican Party and other parties and non-affiliated candidates, Cazayoux led the field with 49 per cent of the vote, with Republican candidate Woody Jenkins receiving 46 per cent and the three other candidates dividing the remainder. Cazayoux took the oath of office in the U.S. Congress on Tuesday, May 6, thereby resigning from his seat in the Louisiana House. He is serving the remainder of the term that will end on January 3, 2009. Louisiana's delegation in the U.S. House of Representatives now includes Republican Representatives Steve Scalise, Jim McCrery, Rodney Alexander, and Charles Boustany; and Democratic Representatives William Jefferson, Charlie Melancon, and Don Cazayoux.
April 30, 2008
Hands-Free Device Cell Phone Bill
By Rep. Austin Badon
Distracted drivers throughout the country are causing motor vehicle accidents and deaths. Many of these drivers are distracted because of cell phone use. In 2006 and 2007, more than 17 fatalities and nearly 5000 accidents were due to drivers using hand-held cell phones. We have all seen the driver in the wrong lane and the driver going too slow or too fast because they are preoccupied with their cell phone conversations or text messages.
This is why I introduced House Bill 852 which prohibits the use of a cell phone or communication device while driving, unless it has hands-free capabilities. By requiring the use of hands free devices, drivers will be able to put both hands on the wheel and focus their attention on their surroundings and on driving.
Some will argue that there are other things besides cell phones that distract drivers. Yes, there are. However, we have the technology to address the cell phone issue and therefore we should. And this legislation does not prohibit you from talking on your cell phone while driving. It just requires that you use hands-free devices. A small price to pay to save a life.
Distracted drivers throughout the country are causing motor vehicle accidents and deaths. Many of these drivers are distracted because of cell phone use. In 2006 and 2007, more than 17 fatalities and nearly 5000 accidents were due to drivers using hand-held cell phones. We have all seen the driver in the wrong lane and the driver going too slow or too fast because they are preoccupied with their cell phone conversations or text messages.
This is why I introduced House Bill 852 which prohibits the use of a cell phone or communication device while driving, unless it has hands-free capabilities. By requiring the use of hands free devices, drivers will be able to put both hands on the wheel and focus their attention on their surroundings and on driving.
Some will argue that there are other things besides cell phones that distract drivers. Yes, there are. However, we have the technology to address the cell phone issue and therefore we should. And this legislation does not prohibit you from talking on your cell phone while driving. It just requires that you use hands-free devices. A small price to pay to save a life.
April 25, 2008
International Officials Visit the Legislature
A delegation of governmental and business leaders from Colombia was welcomed to the state capitol and the House of Representatives on April 17 by Representative Steve Pugh from Ponchatoula, District 73. Their day in Baton Rouge capped a week-long economic development program organized by the Latin American Business Development Initiative at the College of Business, Southeastern Louisiana University. The program's agenda stated that "the Colombia Government Officials delegation to Louisiana is designed to facilitate and improve business, political and social development opportunities between Colombia and the State of Louisiana under the vision of the Free Trade Agreement. The program offers participants a comprehensive schedule that includes opportunities to meet and interact with Louisiana business leaders and government officials from different sectors." These 34 individuals from Colombia – representing business, state government, and local government – met with the mayor's office in New Orleans; the mayors of Hammond, Mandeville, Ponchatoula, and Baton Rouge; the state Department of Economic Development; and specialists in the fields of economic development, organizational management of municipalities, international cooperation, e-learning and technology, immigration law, and export/import policy. They also visited the Port of New Orleans, TEMPICO, Ferrara Fire Apparatus, and the Mall of Louisiana. Following a presentation on how the Legislature works, Representative Pugh gave the officials mementoes of their visit to Louisiana at a special luncheon in Baton Rouge. The delegation returned to the capitol to be presented to the House of Representatives. Gloria Lilian Uribe Ríos, Presidenta Concejo Municipal, thanked the House for Louisiana's hospitality.
Participating agencies in the program include the College of Business at Southeastern Louisiana University, the World Trade Center of New Orleans, the Louisiana Department of Economic Development, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana, the Inter-American Development Bank, Microsoft, and several businesses and business leaders.
Participating agencies in the program include the College of Business at Southeastern Louisiana University, the World Trade Center of New Orleans, the Louisiana Department of Economic Development, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana, the Inter-American Development Bank, Microsoft, and several businesses and business leaders.
April 19, 2008
An Experiment in Calendar Management
By: Alfred W. Speer, Clerk
The Louisiana House of Representatives is conducting an experiment in calendar management – scheduling bills for debate on final passage. Speaker Jim Tucker wanted to give the 59 new members more preparation time and opportunity than had ever been allowed in the past. The Speaker remembered his first sessions: crushing work load, legislating by surprise, an inability to track and prepare for bills because no one knew or could predict when a particular bill would be debated on the House floor.
Welcome the House’s Debate calendar! The Speaker announces, and posts on the House’s web site, the bills to be debated on each session day for the following week. The weekly schedule is: regular calendar bills on Monday, consent and regular calendar bills on Tuesday, Special Order and regular calendar bills on Wednesday and consent, regular, and postponed bills on Thursday. Each session day has an allotted number of bills and ONLY those bills will be considered for debate. If a bill on the list is postponed, that bill can only be called on a Thursday of some succeeding week. Once the day’s debate calendar is clear, the House adjourns for the day.
The scheduling of specific bills on specific days will provide members, advocates, and the public sufficient advance notice of a bill’s debate to allow for proper preparation and to allow interested citizens fair warning of the day upon which they may wish to attend the House’s debate.
Through the initial two weeks of this experiment the membership’s reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, the House has managed its debate and workload without problem, and the daily workload has not been crushing. So far, this experiment is a success.
The Louisiana House of Representatives is conducting an experiment in calendar management – scheduling bills for debate on final passage. Speaker Jim Tucker wanted to give the 59 new members more preparation time and opportunity than had ever been allowed in the past. The Speaker remembered his first sessions: crushing work load, legislating by surprise, an inability to track and prepare for bills because no one knew or could predict when a particular bill would be debated on the House floor.
Welcome the House’s Debate calendar! The Speaker announces, and posts on the House’s web site, the bills to be debated on each session day for the following week. The weekly schedule is: regular calendar bills on Monday, consent and regular calendar bills on Tuesday, Special Order and regular calendar bills on Wednesday and consent, regular, and postponed bills on Thursday. Each session day has an allotted number of bills and ONLY those bills will be considered for debate. If a bill on the list is postponed, that bill can only be called on a Thursday of some succeeding week. Once the day’s debate calendar is clear, the House adjourns for the day.
The scheduling of specific bills on specific days will provide members, advocates, and the public sufficient advance notice of a bill’s debate to allow for proper preparation and to allow interested citizens fair warning of the day upon which they may wish to attend the House’s debate.
Through the initial two weeks of this experiment the membership’s reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, the House has managed its debate and workload without problem, and the daily workload has not been crushing. So far, this experiment is a success.
February 27, 2008
On Behalf of the Freshman Class
Remarks at the Closing of the First Extraordinary Session of 2008
By State Representative Simone Champagne
We came here with enthusiasm and vision to help our Governor and fellow senior colleagues to lead our state in a new direction.
Thirty freshmen authored bills. Freshmen proposed 20 amendments to House Bills, of which 17 were adopted, and 24 amendments to Senate Bills, of which 15 were adopted. Five bills by freshmen have completed the legislative process.
We thank our Governor for bringing us here today. We could not have accomplished what we have in this short period of time without Speaker Jim Tucker, Speaker Pro Tem Karen Peterson, and House Clerk Butch Speer, who took up for us and fought for us when that may not have been the most popular thing to do at the time. We thank you.
We also thank our senior colleagues who offered us advice and guidance with the process.
Our staff who works diligently behind the scenes and who are the nuts and bolts of the operation that keep us grounded:
The Sergeants-at-Arms who come here everyday and protect the integrity of our house:
Chairman Rick Gallot and the House and Governmental Affairs Committee, understanding that we may not all like everything that was done but led this effort knowing that, long term, the "Company" known to us as our state will have a more prosperous future and who ultimately took the hits for the team:
Representative Jane Smith, who gave us wonderful advice in our orientation by telling us to respect our colleagues and they in turn will respect us:
We thank all of you for not only being our colleagues but our friends in this process.
Our work has just begun. It is a new day in Louisiana. Two weeks ago we walked on this floor individually; today we leave together as a team to Renew Louisiana.
By State Representative Simone Champagne
We came here with enthusiasm and vision to help our Governor and fellow senior colleagues to lead our state in a new direction.
Thirty freshmen authored bills. Freshmen proposed 20 amendments to House Bills, of which 17 were adopted, and 24 amendments to Senate Bills, of which 15 were adopted. Five bills by freshmen have completed the legislative process.
We thank our Governor for bringing us here today. We could not have accomplished what we have in this short period of time without Speaker Jim Tucker, Speaker Pro Tem Karen Peterson, and House Clerk Butch Speer, who took up for us and fought for us when that may not have been the most popular thing to do at the time. We thank you.
We also thank our senior colleagues who offered us advice and guidance with the process.
Our staff who works diligently behind the scenes and who are the nuts and bolts of the operation that keep us grounded:
The Sergeants-at-Arms who come here everyday and protect the integrity of our house:
Chairman Rick Gallot and the House and Governmental Affairs Committee, understanding that we may not all like everything that was done but led this effort knowing that, long term, the "Company" known to us as our state will have a more prosperous future and who ultimately took the hits for the team:
Representative Jane Smith, who gave us wonderful advice in our orientation by telling us to respect our colleagues and they in turn will respect us:
We thank all of you for not only being our colleagues but our friends in this process.
Our work has just begun. It is a new day in Louisiana. Two weeks ago we walked on this floor individually; today we leave together as a team to Renew Louisiana.
February 21, 2008
THE FACTS ABOUT HOUSE BILL 41
by Jim Tucker, Speaker of the House
I would like to respond to the letter to the editor, "Bill Would Be Ethics Setback," which appeared in the February 19 edition of The Advocate as well as concerns stated by PAR and CABL of House Bill 41. While I respect Jean Armstrong, the author of the letter, and the League of Women Voters, PAR and CABL, I feel I must correct some of the inaccuracies stated therein.
House Bill 41 seeks to have administrative law judges rather than the Board of Ethics decide whether someone is guilty of violating ethics laws. Currently, the Board acts as investigator, prosecutor, and judge of alleged ethics violations.
I do not know how Ms. Armstrong can state that HB 41 was "added to the call at the last minute" and "put on a fast track to passage." The Governor is required by the Constitution to issue a call at least 5 days before convening a special session. He did that, and there was an item in the original call dealing with this issue. Additionally, HB 41 has been moving through the legislative process at the same rate as other bills. With a limited amount of time in a special session, all bills are heard as soon as possible. HB 41 is no different than any other bill.
HB 41 does not diminish the power of the Board of Ethics. The Board will continue to be the investigator and the prosecutor of ethics violations, as they should . However, it is a violation of a person's due process rights to be accused, prosecuted, tried and sentenced by the same body. Our legal system is based on a separation between the investigators (law enforcement agencies), accusers and triers (prosecutors), and the decision makers and sentencers (judges/juries). It should be no different for someone being investigated by the Board of Ethics. There is nothing wrong with infusing the process with outside persons who have an unbiased view and no preconceived ideas of a person's guilt or innocence. It is most important that independent individuals be able to look at all the evidence and determine judgment.
This bill provides for, among other things, a randomly selected 3-judge panel of administrative law judges to look at the evidence presented to determine if the accused is guilty or innocent of the accusations against them. This process will not "undermine" the system. On the contrary, I believe that these changes to the process strengthen the democratic system and place all parties, both accuser and accused, on a level playing field.
Again, HB 41 does not diminish the power of the Board of Ethics. This bill, like the others in the Governor's package, makes positive changes in the ethics law and will send the message that Louisiana is serious about ethics reform and transparency in government.
I would like to respond to the letter to the editor, "Bill Would Be Ethics Setback," which appeared in the February 19 edition of The Advocate as well as concerns stated by PAR and CABL of House Bill 41. While I respect Jean Armstrong, the author of the letter, and the League of Women Voters, PAR and CABL, I feel I must correct some of the inaccuracies stated therein.
House Bill 41 seeks to have administrative law judges rather than the Board of Ethics decide whether someone is guilty of violating ethics laws. Currently, the Board acts as investigator, prosecutor, and judge of alleged ethics violations.
I do not know how Ms. Armstrong can state that HB 41 was "added to the call at the last minute" and "put on a fast track to passage." The Governor is required by the Constitution to issue a call at least 5 days before convening a special session. He did that, and there was an item in the original call dealing with this issue. Additionally, HB 41 has been moving through the legislative process at the same rate as other bills. With a limited amount of time in a special session, all bills are heard as soon as possible. HB 41 is no different than any other bill.
HB 41 does not diminish the power of the Board of Ethics. The Board will continue to be the investigator and the prosecutor of ethics violations, as they should . However, it is a violation of a person's due process rights to be accused, prosecuted, tried and sentenced by the same body. Our legal system is based on a separation between the investigators (law enforcement agencies), accusers and triers (prosecutors), and the decision makers and sentencers (judges/juries). It should be no different for someone being investigated by the Board of Ethics. There is nothing wrong with infusing the process with outside persons who have an unbiased view and no preconceived ideas of a person's guilt or innocence. It is most important that independent individuals be able to look at all the evidence and determine judgment.
This bill provides for, among other things, a randomly selected 3-judge panel of administrative law judges to look at the evidence presented to determine if the accused is guilty or innocent of the accusations against them. This process will not "undermine" the system. On the contrary, I believe that these changes to the process strengthen the democratic system and place all parties, both accuser and accused, on a level playing field.
Again, HB 41 does not diminish the power of the Board of Ethics. This bill, like the others in the Governor's package, makes positive changes in the ethics law and will send the message that Louisiana is serious about ethics reform and transparency in government.
February 07, 2008
Appropriations Subcommittees Named
by Sheila McCant, Public Information Officer
House Appropriations Committee Chairman Jim Fannin this week announced the members of the Appropriations Committee's six standing subcommittees. The subcommittees, comprised of the members of the Appropriations Committee, will meet individually to conduct hearings on the governor's proposed Executive Budget which is submitted each spring to the legislature.
The subcommittees and membership are:
Business Development
Gary Smith, Chairman
Patrick Connick
Page Cortez
Eddie Lambert
John Schroder
Education
Eddie Lambert, Chairman
Joe Harrison
Kevin Pearson
Karen Carter Peterson
Pat Smith
General Government
Brett Geymann, Chairman
Simone Champagne
Noble Ellington
Tony Ligi
J. P. Morrell
Health & Human Services
Tom McVea, Chairman
Chris Hazel
John LaBruzzo
Harvey LeBas
Patrick Williams
Infrastructure & Resources
Jim Morris, Chairman
Don Cazayoux
Noble Ellington
Walt Leger
Mert Smiley
Public Safety & Corrections
Elbert Guillory, Chairman
Chris Hazel
Tom McVea
Mert Smiley
Gary Smith
This year Governor Jindal's Executive Budget recommendations will be presented to the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget on February 29, 2008. The subcommittees will begin meeting in the coming weeks.
House Appropriations Committee Chairman Jim Fannin this week announced the members of the Appropriations Committee's six standing subcommittees. The subcommittees, comprised of the members of the Appropriations Committee, will meet individually to conduct hearings on the governor's proposed Executive Budget which is submitted each spring to the legislature.
The subcommittees and membership are:
Business Development
Gary Smith, Chairman
Patrick Connick
Page Cortez
Eddie Lambert
John Schroder
Education
Eddie Lambert, Chairman
Joe Harrison
Kevin Pearson
Karen Carter Peterson
Pat Smith
General Government
Brett Geymann, Chairman
Simone Champagne
Noble Ellington
Tony Ligi
J. P. Morrell
Health & Human Services
Tom McVea, Chairman
Chris Hazel
John LaBruzzo
Harvey LeBas
Patrick Williams
Infrastructure & Resources
Jim Morris, Chairman
Don Cazayoux
Noble Ellington
Walt Leger
Mert Smiley
Public Safety & Corrections
Elbert Guillory, Chairman
Chris Hazel
Tom McVea
Mert Smiley
Gary Smith
This year Governor Jindal's Executive Budget recommendations will be presented to the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget on February 29, 2008. The subcommittees will begin meeting in the coming weeks.
January 28, 2008
Louisiana House Committee Leaders Train for New Roles
Speaker Jim Tucker's leadership team stayed an extra day after the historic 2008 Organizational Session to begin training for new responsibilities as chairs and vice-chairs of House committees. Speaker Pro Tem Karen Carter Peterson joined them. Because of term limits, very few of these new chairs and vice chairs have experience leading House committees. With special and regular sessions on the horizon for this class of overwhelmingly new House members, Speaker Tucker felt that leadership training is urgent.
The experiences of other state legislatures were helpful to the Special Committee on Term Limits that met during the previous term, so three key legislative leaders from Texas, Tennessee, and Illinois joined committee staff experts from the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) and the House committee staff in this training session.
Kim McMillan, former House Majority Leader from Tennessee, Steve Rauschenberger, former Senate Republican Leader from Illinois, and Senator Jeff Wentworth from Texas shared strategies for committee planning and preparation, running a fair and productive hearing, norms of behavior for chairs and vice chairs, and the committee's role in developing legislation and making the process open to the public. Tim Storey from NCSL facilitated the presentations and conducted a discussion of what qualities make a good committee chair. Experienced House committee staffers outlined the rules governing committee business in the Louisiana House, emphasizing public notice of hearings, key points of parliamentary procedure applicable to committees, voting in committees, and procedural rules and practices specific to chairing a House committee.
Speaker Tucker directed the leadership team to hold organizational and briefing meetings of their committees during the February special legislative session, so that committee members will become familiar with committee procedure and their subject matter jurisdiction as they go into their first year of sessions.
The experiences of other state legislatures were helpful to the Special Committee on Term Limits that met during the previous term, so three key legislative leaders from Texas, Tennessee, and Illinois joined committee staff experts from the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) and the House committee staff in this training session.
Kim McMillan, former House Majority Leader from Tennessee, Steve Rauschenberger, former Senate Republican Leader from Illinois, and Senator Jeff Wentworth from Texas shared strategies for committee planning and preparation, running a fair and productive hearing, norms of behavior for chairs and vice chairs, and the committee's role in developing legislation and making the process open to the public. Tim Storey from NCSL facilitated the presentations and conducted a discussion of what qualities make a good committee chair. Experienced House committee staffers outlined the rules governing committee business in the Louisiana House, emphasizing public notice of hearings, key points of parliamentary procedure applicable to committees, voting in committees, and procedural rules and practices specific to chairing a House committee.
Speaker Tucker directed the leadership team to hold organizational and briefing meetings of their committees during the February special legislative session, so that committee members will become familiar with committee procedure and their subject matter jurisdiction as they go into their first year of sessions.
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