Competing plans: House Republicans started advancing two budget-rebalancing proposals Wednesday that would cut more deeply than Gov. John Bel Edwards wants and hit agencies the Democratic governor wanted to protect. The Associated Press reports approval of the competing plans by the House Appropriations Committee came a day after budget negotiations broke down between House GOP leaders and Edwards over how to close the state’s $304 million deficit in the short special session called by the governor. Both plans were backed by the committee in largely party-line votes, with Democrats in opposition. The first proposal, sponsored by Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry, R-Metairie, would use nearly $75 million from Louisiana’s Rainy Day Fund—$45 million less than the governor proposes. A second plan wouldn’t use any of the state’s reserve funds at all. Read the full story.
In the bank: Gov. John Bel Edwards raised nearly $3.3 million for his re-election bid during his first year in office, giving him a hefty campaign account years ahead of the 2019 governor’s race. The Associated Press reports the Democratic governor’s latest fundraising report, covering all contributions and spending for 2016, was filed Wednesday with the state ethics administration office. Edwards reports he ended the year with about $3.3 million cash on hand, after accounting for dollars left from 2015 and campaign expenses. The governor’s campaign says nearly all the contributions came from Louisiana residents. For comparison, former Gov. Bobby Jindal brought in nearly $3.5 million in his first year in office. Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry, a possible Edwards competitor in 2019, reported drawing $899,000 in campaign donations last year and ending with $544,000 on hand.
Taking names: The Baton Rouge Area Chamber this morning began accepting applications for the 2018 class of its annual leadership program. Nominees are accepted from public and private agencies, corporations, civic and other organizations, and individuals. Candidates are selected by a committee of leadership alumni on the basis of demonstrated leadership ability through career or community achievements, concern for the future of the Baton Rouge area and commitment to the program. The program, which begins in August and runs through June of next year, aims to prepare professionals for leadership positions in the community. Applications will be accepted through May 31. Get complete details and make your nominations online.
