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Despite bump, Louisiana teacher salaries likely to remain below Southern average 

An analysis of the most recent public school teacher salary data shows Louisiana still trails most of its regional peers—and is likely to remain there despite the Legislature adding $2,000 for the upcoming school year. 

Gov. Edwards vetoes phase-out of Louisiana’s corporate franchise tax

Gov. John Bel Edwards on Wednesday vetoed legislation that would have phased out the corporate franchise tax but also cost the state millions in revenue.

Poll shows Stephen Waguespack gaining on Jeff Landry in governor’s race

A new poll shows Republican and former Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack closing the gap on leading GOP contender Jeff...

‘LaPolitics’: Lawmakers eyeing a return to Baton Rouge

Regret and frustration were the leading themes during this week's Senate committee hearings on the regular session’s frantic final moments.

Lawmakers considering special session to address budget chaos

Some Louisiana legislators are raising the prospect of a special session to rework the budget following the chaotic close to the legislative session two weeks ago. 

‘Broken’ budget process raises questions on how Legislature will address future shortfalls

Though his title suggests otherwise, Louisiana Budget Project Executive Director Jan Moller isn’t entirely sure what is in the state’s newest budget. 

Alford: Legislative players remain on veto watch

Gov. John Bel Edwards issued a set of vetoes last week, his first since the regular session was adjourned earlier this month. The executive actions grabbed a few headlines here and there, but they failed to answer the larger questions looming over the state Capitol.  

‘LaPolitics’: Legislature’s work likely isn’t done

The courts could force lawmakers into a special session on redistricting, to redraw Louisiana’s congressional map to accommodate a second Black majority district. 

These constitutional amendments will be on the ballot this fall 

The Louisiana Legislature concluded its legislative session for 2023 on June 8. During this session, seven constitutional amendments were passed, adding to the existing...
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Alford: Legislature faced with uncertainty following the session

The fussing and shouting that marked the conclusion of the regular session last week could be heard from Baton Rouge to Bunkie. 

BRAC’s legislative wrap-up highlights what it sees as wins for the Capital Region 

The Baton Rouge Area Chamber released its annual legislative wrap-up, highlighting bills passed that align with the chamber’s legislative priorities.    

Departing coastal chief says restoration must be a higher priority 

The departing coastal authority head thinks restoration needs to be elevated in Louisiana’s political conversation, including the governor’s race.
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PAR, CABL lay out the good, the bad and the ugly from legislative session

Two of Louisiana’s leading nonpartisan policy organizations are praising some of the investments state lawmakers approved in the just-concluded session while criticizing how the sausage got made. 

‘LaPolitics’ Q&A: Pollster John Couvillon

LaPolitics: What’s too small when it comes to polling? Can you poll just about any sized community? John M. Couvillon, president of JMC Analytics and...

Supreme Court ruling threatens Louisiana’s congressional map

Today’s surprising U.S. Supreme Court ruling overthrowing Alabama's congressional map because it dilutes Black voting power could also erase Louisiana's congressional boundaries and require the state to add a second majority Black district.

Restrictions on carbon capture quashed in Louisiana Legislature

A handful of Louisiana lawmakers brought bills this session to address public outcry over carbon capture and sequestration projects, but their fellow legislators rejected most of their proposals. 
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State lawmakers nearing deadline to pass a budget

As the clock ticks down to adjournment, Louisiana legislators still need to pass a budget. 

Louisiana Legislature agrees to raise spending cap 

The Louisiana House voted 85-19 today to lift the state spending cap by a total of $1.65 billion, ending months of speculation over whether a group of conservative legislators could block more than a billion dollars in additional government spending over the next 13 months. 

U.S. Rep. Graves says new Mississippi crossing in Iberville leaves need for solution farther...

Even as officials look to pick a location for a new Mississippi River bridge among three options in Iberville Parish, U.S. Rep. Garret Graves says the state should be searching for additional solutions closer to Interstate 10 and U.S. 190. 

Concert sales tax rebate was inspired by Bayou Country Superfest incentive

Legislation passed over the weekend in the Louisiana Legislature aimed at attracting more large festivals and concerts to East Baton Rouge Parish was inspired by incentives granted to Bayou Country Superfest.