OPINION: Trump Administration Pushes FDA Reform; Louisiana’s Johnson and Scalise Key to Restoring Accountability and Advancing Harm Reduction

After the repeated failures of the Biden Administration, President Trump has put the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and its Center for Tobacco Products (CTP) under the microscope—and rightly so. 

For far too long bureaucratic delays at the CTP in reviewing smoke-free products created confusion in the marketplace and ignored its required responsibility to promote public health through tobacco harm reduction, not prohibition.

With the confirmations of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and FDA Commissioner Dr. Martin Makary, the agency has an opportunity to make the necessary reforms needed. One welcome step towards these changes came in March, when the administration took bold steps at the CTP by changing  ineffective leadership. 

Just days after these changes, the Supreme Court weighed in on the FDA v. Wages and White Lion case, involving the agency’s haphazard and shifting standards for evaluating premarket tobacco applications (PMTAs). 

While the court upheld the FDA’s decision to deny flavored e-cigarette products, it also acknowledged concerns about the agency’s decision to ignore marketing plans “for the sake of efficiency,” and sent the issue back to the 5th Circuit for further review.

This is a pivotal moment for tobacco regulatory reform. CTP should embrace tobacco harm reduction, a principle grounded in science, not politics. That means authorizing smoke-free products that are better alternatives than continued smoking, which is the most harmful way to consume nicotine. These innovative products can help adults who smoke leave cigarettes behind for good which, in turn, can benefit the public health–but only if the CTP moves swiftly to review the massive backlog of pending applications.

While American businesses await regulatory clarity, illicit and unauthorized Chinese vapor products now account for an estimated 60 percent of the American market. This is not just a public health concern, but an economic one. Law-abiding U.S. manufacturers are being undercut by an unregulated illicit market that the FDA has failed to control, endangering American adults and hurting businesses of all sizes. 

Congress gave CTP authority to regulate tobacco products in 2009, but what we’ve seen are delays, and an inconsistent agency that too often stifles innovation. Louisiana’s very own House Speaker Mike Johnson and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise must seize the opportunity and encourage the Trump Administration to enact long overdue reforms. We need action that puts American adults in control of their decisions, especially when it comes to their health.

The path forward is clear: cut the red tape, enforce the law, and empower adult consumers with the best innovative options. It’s time to bring CTP into the 21st century.

Alton Philips

Governor Jeff Landry Signs Largest Tort Reform Effort in State History Into Law

Holds both trial lawyers and insurance companies accountable 

Baton Rouge, LA – Today, Governor Jeff Landry held a press conference at the Governor’s Mansion where he signed the largest tort reform effort in Louisiana history into law. Watch press conference here.

"Today, we’ve taken steps to shield Louisianans from frivolous lawsuits driven by trial lawyers—using a data-driven strategy. And we made it clear to insurance companies that they must answer to their policyholders. Over the past fifty days, I am proud to say that the only side I’ve stood with is the people of Louisiana," said Governor Jeff Landry.

The bills signed include: 

HB 148: Insurance Commissioner Authority:

• Grants the Insurance Commissioner greater authority to hold down rates.

• Texas, Mississippi, South Caroline, Florida, or Alabama—to just name a few states— all grant their insurance commissioner this power. 

HB 450: Housley Presumption:

• Would require someone who sued over injuries in a car accident to show that the injuries actually occurred during the accident.

HB 434: No Pay No Play:

• Would disallow a driver without car insurance from collecting an award for bodily injury medical expenses for any amount below $100,000, up from $15,000 today. 

HB 436: Illegal Aliens:

• Would prohibit undocumented immigrants who are injured in car accidents from collecting general damages

HB 431:  Comparative Fault:

• Would bar drivers responsible for at least 51% of an accident from receiving a damage award to cover their injuries.

• Under current law, a driver responsible for, say, 51% of the accident can collect a payment equal to 49% of the overall damage award.

HB 549: Dash Cam Discount:

• Provides a premium discount for commercial motor vehicles with dashboard cameras and telematics systems. 

OPINION: Democrats Are Wrong on Carried Interest — It's an Investment Tool, Not a Loophole

A group of Senate Democrats recently sent a letter urging President Trump to eliminate the so-called “carried interest loophole.” Their argument is predictable: that private equity managers are avoiding taxes and exploiting the system at the expense of everyday Americans. But like many progressive talking points, the letter is heavy on rhetoric and light on economic understanding.

Carried interest is not a loophole. It’s a long-standing, well-established tax provision that treats investment profits as capital gains — because that’s exactly what they are. Fund managers and investors only earn carried interest when they take real financial risk and generate returns over time. Unlike salaried workers, these individuals often invest personal capital, guarantee debt, and work for years with no income. That’s not tax evasion — it’s how entrepreneurship works.

We’re especially grateful to Speaker Mike Johnson and conservatives in the House for recognizing this. The Big Beautiful Tax Bill passed by the House preserved carried interest treatment, and in doing so, protected critical energy investment in Louisiana and across the country. It’s a victory for jobs, growth, and common sense.

Here in Louisiana, carried interest is essential to the oil and gas sector. Smaller producers depend on private equity partnerships to fund drilling and infrastructure projects that fuel the American economy. Changing the tax treatment would dry up capital, slow innovation, and threaten energy security.

We urge Senators John Kennedy and Bill Cassidy to stand firm. Reject the progressive talking points from your Democratic colleagues and defend the tax provisions that keep Louisiana’s economy strong.

Carried interest is not a giveaway — it’s a cornerstone of growth. Let’s protect it.

Alton Phillips

Governor Jeff Landry Issues Executive Order Following Major Security Breach at Orleans Parish Correctional Facility

Allows the State to take action to implement transparency and accountability in the Orleans Parish criminal justice system and around the State  

Baton Rouge, LA –Today, Governor Landry issued an executive order, mandating an immediate and aggressive response across multiple state agencies to address a major breach at the Orleans Parish Correctional Facility (OPCF). With five dangerous inmates still at large, Governor Landry is making it clear that keeping the public safe is his top priority, and no effort will be spared in bringing those responsible to justice.

Watch Governor Landry sign the Executive Order here: 

“Our criminal justice system is a three-legged bar stool. If one fails, the whole system collapses. This brings us to where we are today—New Orleans willingly handed the jail keys to those leaders who vowed to keep criminals OUT of jail. Sadly, it worked,” said Governor Landry. “However, the State will not sit idly by. We are taking immediate, decisive action to ensure that this never happens again. The people of Louisiana deserve not only transparency and accountability, but also a justice system that is unyielding in its commitment to public safety—and our Executive Order demands it. Enough is enough.”

The Governor's Executive Order:

• The Inspector General will oversee audits of case files

• DOC will review OPCF operations for compliance with jail standards.

• All DOC inmates in OPCF will be relocated to state-run facilities.

• The Louisiana Supreme Court is asked to continue reviewing the Orleans Criminal Court, and the Judiciary Commission is asked to assess judicial performance in high-crime parishes.

• Court clerks are requested to document continuance requests, and judges are urged to address unnecessary delays.

• The Metropolitan Crime Commission is requested to develop a system to track cases from arrest to conviction.

• Lastly, the Attorney General will lead the investigation, with full cooperation from state agencies.

###

Governor Jeff Landry Partners with President Donald Trump to Launch “Operation GEAUX”

Governor Landry joins Deputy Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Madison Sheahan to sign Operation GEAUX

WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Governor Jeff Landry joined Deputy Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Madison Sheahan, ICE Principal Legal Advisor Charlie Wall, and a team of other patriots to announce a HUGE, historic partnership with the federal government to crack down on criminal illegal aliens in the great State of Louisiana. This game changer is called Operation GEAUX. 

Under this powerful new initiative, Louisiana law enforcement agencies will be empowered to enforce federal immigration laws, giving them the tools necessary to take dangerous, illegal criminals off our street. Operation GEAUX includes enhanced screening, aggressive identification, and a massive public awareness campaign that is going to wake people up. This isn’t just talk—it’s action. And it’s happening now.

“If you’re here illegally and you engage in criminal activity, you are going to be deported or sent to jail,” said Governor Landry. “Operation GEAUX is the kind of historic, one-of-a-kind partnership that the Trump Administration is looking for to fulfill the President’s promises of restoring law and order! Making America Safe Again.” 

Background:

Over the past four years, immigration enforcement mechanisms established by Congress and prior administrations were systematically dismantled under the Biden Administration, resulting in the largest wave of illegal immigration in the Nation’s history. The estimated population of illegal aliens in Louisiana was approximately 97,000 as of 2021, with current figures likely significantly higher.

Since President Trump took office in January, border crossings have plunged to the lowest in decades. It is because of the Trump Administration’s strict immigration enforcement and tough on crime approach, that streets across the Nation are safer. 

President Trump has made it clear that illegal immigration has no place in America, and we want to ensure this is a reality in Louisiana. For too long, those on the left and in the media have coddled those who break our laws and given them a platform. We are ushering in a new age in America and Louisiana. One where law and order is the expectation, not the exception. Where our communities and families are protected, and criminals are rejected. The actions taken today are a sign to the world that the days of status quo, lackadaisical immigration enforcement are over.

OPINION: Dick Durbin’s Parting Gift to America? More Big Government Overreach

Senator Dick Durbin may be retiring, but his crusade against consumer freedom and financial innovation continues. Even with the clock running out on his decades-long career in Washington, the Illinois Democrat is still clinging to his misguided push for the so-called Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA) — a bill that would do far more harm than good.

Durbin wants to force credit card issuers to allow multiple processing networks on every card — a direct hit on Visa and Mastercard, which currently handle the lion’s share of transactions. He claims this would foster competition and lower fees for merchants. But the truth is that this bill is just another Washington power grab that will put small banks, credit unions, and consumers at risk — all while lining the pockets of big-box retailers.

Let’s be clear: this isn’t about competition. It’s about control. The same retailers who already benefited from Durbin’s infamous 2010 amendment to the Dodd-Frank Act — which gutted debit card rewards and did nothing to lower prices for consumers — are now back for another handout. Groups like the National Retail Federation and National Restaurant Association have backed this bill from the beginning, hoping to slash their costs without passing a dime in savings on to everyday Americans.

And just like the last time, it’s hardworking families who will pay the price.

Durbin’s bill would undermine the credit card rewards programs that millions of Americans rely on — the travel points, cashback offers, and other benefits that have become standard in a competitive marketplace. It would also weaken fraud protection by steering transactions away from the most secure, battle-tested networks and toward unproven alternatives.

This isn’t free-market reform — it’s government-mandated interference. And it’s telling that many Republicans, like House Financial Services Chairman French Hill, are refusing to take the bait. As Hill recently said, “This isn’t the way to resolve it.” Congress shouldn’t be in the business of picking winners and losers between retailers and banks. The market works just fine without another top-down mandate from Washington.

In fact, opposition to the CCCA is growing among conservative voices who see it for what it is: a corporate giveaway disguised as reform. Groups like the Electronic Payments Coalition and the Bank Policy Institute have been sounding the alarm — and rightly so. This bill would inject instability into a system that, despite its flaws, provides safe, efficient, and rewarding services to consumers and businesses alike.

Perhaps most ironic is Durbin’s timing. With President Trump back in the White House and a Republican Congress focused on innovation — from cryptocurrency to stablecoins — Durbin’s tired agenda feels like a relic of the past. While the rest of the country looks ahead to financial modernization, Durbin is still trying to micromanage the checkout counter.

As he heads for the exit, Durbin should take his failed ideas with him. The Credit Card Competition Act isn’t about protecting consumers. It’s about expanding government, empowering corporate lobbyists, and once again punishing the very financial institutions that help drive our economy.

Republicans in Congress must stand firm and reject this last-ditch power play. Speaker Mike Johnson and House leadership should refuse to give this bill oxygen — and ensure that Durbin’s legacy doesn’t include another swipe at the American consumer.

It’s time to let the free market, not bureaucrats or lobbyists, shape the future of payments in America.

Alton Phillips - Louisiana

Kennedy on extending tax cuts: “If we don’t, then we are going to have a $4.3 trillion tax increase on the American people.”

“If we raise taxes right now, $4.3 trillion on the American people, this economy will begin a journey to the center of the Earth. We cannot let it happen.”

Watch Kennedy’s comments here.

WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) explained why extending the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is the most important thing Congress can do in the budget reconciliation process to protect the economy in a speech on the U.S. Senate floor.

Key excerpts of the speech are below:

“So, the first goal of reconciliation is to try to reduce these prices, to try to kill inflation dead. But there is a second equally—some would say more—important reason, as you well know, Mr. President. In 2017, this Congress, during President Trump’s first term, passed the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. We cut taxes by $4.3 trillion. And, boy, did it work. The economy took off like a SpaceX rocket ship.”

. . .

“The bad news is that those tax cuts expire at the end of this year. So, we are going to try to extend them and make them permanent in our reconciliation bill. And if we don’t, then we are going to have a $4.3 trillion tax increase on the American people.

“I want you to think about that, Mr. President, when some of our colleagues try to throw up roadblocks to our reconciliation bill. In effect, what they are saying is, they want to raise taxes on the American people by $4.3 trillion.

“That is the most important thing we want to do in our reconciliation bill. It is not the only important thing, as I mentioned, but it is clearly the most important thing. If we raise taxes right now, $4.3 trillion on the American people, this economy will begin a journey to the center of the Earth. We cannot let it happen.”

Watch Kennedy’s speech here.  

Kennedy reintroduces CRAWDAD Act to support Louisiana jobs, culture

“Come rain, shine, sleet or snow, Louisiana’s mudbug farmers always work hard to deliver quality food to crawfish lovers. My CRAWDAD Act would make sure crawfish producers have access to the emergency support they need when droughts and other severe weather strike.”

WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today reintroduced the Crawfish Recovery Assistance from Weather Disasters and Droughts (CRAWDAD) Act. The bill would support Louisiana crawfish jobs when severe weather puts strain on the industry.

“Come rain, shine, sleet or snow, Louisiana’s mudbug farmers always work hard to deliver quality food to crawfish lovers. My CRAWDAD Act would make sure crawfish producers have access to the emergency support they need when droughts and other severe weather strike,” said Kennedy.

Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) cosponsored the CRAWDAD Act.

“When you think Louisiana, you think crawfish. Crawfish farmers work hard to provide Louisiana and the world with the tastiest crawdads possible. Let’s support them as they do so, rain or shine,” said Cassidy.

Background:

• The Emergency Livestock Assistance Program (ELAP) provides producers of livestock, honeybees and farm-raised fish access to federal financial assistance when they face adverse weather, disease or loss conditions.

• In 2021, the Secretary of Agriculture temporarily expanded the ELAP to include crawfish producers when the industry suffered losses.

The CRAWDAD Act would make crawfish producers eligible for ELAP funding on a permanent basis, ensuring that they have access to the emergency support they need without unnecessary bureaucratic delays.

Kennedy’s bill would also classify a drought as a weather event that the Secretary of Agriculture could declare as an emergency.

The Louisiana Farm Bureau supports the CRAWDAD Act.

“Louisiana crawfish farmers hope to never see another drought like they did in 2023. Louisiana Farm Bureau appreciates Senator Kennedy in the reintroduction of the CRAWDAD Act to provide additional support for this vital Louisiana industry,” said Louisiana Farm Bureau President Richard Fontenot.

Full text of the CRAWDAD Act is available here.

Kennedy, Merkley, Marshall, Markey champion bill to end involuntary facial recognition screenings, protect Americans’ privacy at airports

“The TSA subjects countless law-abiding Americans to excessive facial recognition screenings as they travel, invading passengers’ privacy without even making it clear that they can opt out of the screening. The Traveler Privacy Protection Act would protect Americans’ ability to say ‘no’ to these facial scans and safeguard the personal data that the TSA collects.”

Watch Kennedy’s comments in the Senate Budget Committee here.

WASHINGTON – Sens. John Kennedy (R-La.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) today introduced the Traveler Privacy Protection Act of 2025, which would protect Americans’ ability to opt out of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) facial recognition screenings at airports and prevent abuse of passenger data obtained through these scans.

“The TSA subjects countless law-abiding Americans to excessive facial recognition screenings as they travel, invading passengers’ privacy without even making it clear that they can opt out of the screening. The Traveler Privacy Protection Act would protect Americans’ ability to say ‘no’ to these facial scans and safeguard the personal data that the TSA collects,” said Kennedy.

“Folks don’t want a national surveillance state, but that’s exactly what the TSA’s unchecked expansion of facial recognition technology is leading us to. Americans have the right to opt out of using TSA’s facial recognition at the airport, and we need to protect that right. Our Traveler Privacy Protection Act safeguards the freedoms and privacy of all Americans by making sure no one is required to have their face scanned to travel,” said Merkley.

“Privacy is one of America’s most sacred liberties, and we must protect it. In no universe should the federal government collect biometric data from Americans without their full, informed consent. The Traveler Privacy Protection Act strengthens safeguards around this sensitive data and brings transparency for travelers. I’m proud to work with Senators Kennedy, Merkley, and Markey to champion this effort,” said Marshall.

“Passengers should not have to choose between safety and privacy when they travel. Yet, the TSA has consistently ignored our calls to halt the unacceptable use of facial recognition tools and protect passenger privacy. Instead, the agency rapidly expanded the use of the technology nationwide. I am glad to partner with Senators Merkley and Kennedy on the Traveler Privacy Protection Act to ensure travelers are able to exercise their right to privacy and be able to check TSA’s invasive practices at the door,” said Markey.

While the TSA calls its plan to implement facial scans voluntary, passengers are largely unaware of their ability to opt out. Moreover, TSA does not effectively display notices at its check points to inform travelers that they have such an option.

The Traveler Privacy Protection Act of 2025 would:

• Require the TSA to give each passenger the option to have their identity verified without the use of facial recognition and make sure that the TSA notifies passengers about this option.

• Ban the TSA from subjecting travelers who opt out of facial recognition to worse treatment.

• Protect traveler data obtained through facial recognition from being stored indefinitely.

• Stop the TSA from using facial recognition for purposes other than identity verification at security checkpoints.

• Prohibit the TSA from using facial recognition to profile, target or discriminate against individuals solely for exercising their constitutional rights, or to enable wide-scale monitoring, surveillance or tracking.

Sens. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) also cosponsored the bill.

Full text of the Traveler Privacy Protection Act of 2025 is available here.

Rep. Beau Beaullieu Working to Fix Insurance Crisis

Rep. Beau Beaullieu is leading the charge to fix Louisiana's insurance crisis:

• ✅ Backed nearly 30 reform bills

• ⚖️ Fought to end lawsuit abuse

• 🏛️ Held insurance companies accountable

• ⏱️ Helped pass more reform in 2 weeks than the last 20 years

Real relief is finally on the way — thanks to Beau.

You can see the legislation at:

www.FoundationPACLA.com

BABCOCK: Trump's First 100 Days Have Reignited a Sense of American Pride and Purpose

There's no doubt in Louisiana that President Trump's first 100 days have reignited a sense of American pride and purpose. His commitment to "Make America Great Again" is not just a slogan, but a tangible shift in policy.

Protecting Louisiana communities is paramount, and the administration's focus on border security reflects this. By prioritizing the safety of our citizens, we can ensure a more secure and prosperous nation.

Furthermore, the President's efforts to lower the costs of everyday goods are a welcome relief for hardworking American families after four disastrous years of Bidenomics. Addressing the economic burdens faced by ordinary people is crucial for fostering a stable and thriving society and President is working overtime to make good on his promise.

Finally, President Trump's assertive stance on the world stage has projected an image of strength and resolve. In an increasingly complex global landscape, a strong America is essential for maintaining peace and stability. President Trump's work to foster peace through strength have not gone unnoticed in Louisiana.

These first 100 days have demonstrated a clear commitment to putting America first, and I am optimistic about the future of our nation under his America First Agenda and strong leadership.

Derek Babcock
Chairman
Republican Party of Louisiana

LLAW: Louisiana’s unbalanced civil justice system is costing Louisiana’s taxpayers and economy

New data shows lost jobs and revenue statewide and in major metropolitan areas

Baton Rouge, LA – With legal reform among the most important issues being addressed during the current legislative session, Louisiana Lawsuit Abuse Watch (LLAW) is releasing data measuring the impact of excessive civil court costs on the state’s overall economy and in the New Orleans and Baton Rouge Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs), specifically. These impacts were derived from the Economic Benefits of Tort Reform study conducted by The Perryman Group for Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse using extensive survey data, industry information and a variety of corroborative source material. Louisiana families and businesses feel the negative impacts of the state’s unbalanced civil justice system, while the state continues to lose jobs and revenue as a result.

Excessive tort litigation in Louisiana resulted in:

• Nearly 40,000 jobs lost

• A hidden “tort tax” of over $1000 paid by every citizen

• More than $2.9M in personal income losses for residents

• Over $9M in expenditure losses to businesses

• More than $240M in state government losses

This excessive litigation also resulted in more than $200 million in losses to local government and more than $4.6 million to the state’s GDP. Nationally, the impact of these excessive civil court costs was more than $3 billion.

• In the Greater New Orleans area, excessive tort litigation costsresidents more than $1.6 billion in personal income annually and results in a loss of nearly 22,000 jobs each year. Excessive costs result in an annual “tort tax” amounting to over $2000 per person. Direct costs absorbed by residents and businesses amount to over $1.7 billion annually and in excess of $2.5billion in gross product is lost due to litigation costs.

• The greater Baton Rouge area is also paying the price for excessive civil litigation, with residents losing more than $570.7million in personal income. Additionally, nearly 7,800 jobs are lost every year and residents pay an annual “tort tax” of over $1,000 per person.

“We simply can’t afford to stand by and continue to allow lawsuit abuse to negatively impact our residents, job creators and overall economy. Texas enacted sweeping reforms decades ago and has been repeatedly named a top state for business. More recently, Florida and Georgia enacted comprehensive reforms to bring more balance and equity to their legal environments. If Louisiana doesn’t follow suit and address the impacts of unfounded lawsuits and exorbitant plaintiff awards, we will continue to fall behind. This domino effect will impede opportunity for our residents and businesses, while they continue to absorb the rising costs of goods and services,” said LLAW Executive Director Lana Venable.

According to the report, “tort reform can lead to substantial economic benefits, and states that have implemented reforms have seen improved judicial efficiency and measurable advancement in economic performance.” Civil justice reforms that have resulted in the greatest reduction in losses are those aimed at reducing frivolous lawsuits, capping appeal bonds, setting negligence standards and limiting non-economic damages. These reforms have been shown to enhance innovation and increase productivity, as well as to improve judicial efficiency and economic performance.

Louisiana also continues to be ranked among the top Judicial Hellholes® in the country, coming in at number ten in the 2024-25 Judicial Hellholes® Report issued by the American Tort Reform Foundation.

###

About Louisiana Lawsuit Abuse Watch (LLAW)

Louisiana Lawsuit Abuse Watch (LLAW) is a high-impact watchdog group with nearly 20,000 supporters across the state dedicated to fixing Louisiana’s broken legal system through transparency, accountability, and lawsuit reform. Visit us on Facebook, Twitter and www.llaw.org.

About The Perryman Group (TPG)

An economic and financial analysis firm, The Perryman Group (TPG) provides clients with well-documented, carefully considered answers to even the most complex questions. For more than 30 years, The Perryman Group has met the challenges of thousands of clients through a systematic approach and a level of performance that assures a consistent standard of excellence. The firm has been involved in scores of major events shaping the economic landscape, from crucial corporate locations to landmark legislation to important regulatory policies to notable judicial decisions.

Preserving Carried Interest Is Key to America’s Economics Growth—Speaker Johnson Is Right to Listen

The crafty US state that's showing how to thrive under Trump

LITTLETON, Colorado, April 28 (Reuters) - Louisiana has long been overshadowed by its more showy neighbour Texas, which boasts a larger economy and population and has for decades wielded greater sway among policymakers in Washington DC and on the world stage.

But the Bayou State is staging a revival that could see it emerge as the more dynamic and influential Gulf Coast hub over the coming decades, thanks to a development blueprint that could be described as being all things to all people.

Read more: The crafty US state that's showing how to thrive under Trump

OPINION: Life insurance must be protected

My name is Quinn Bates. I’m a senior citizen living in Louisiana, and I’m writing to urge you to protect the life insurance industry—an industry that plays a vital role in the financial well-being of families across our state.

Life insurance has long been a foundation of security for middle-class families like mine. It gives us the confidence to save, invest, and plan for the future. In Louisiana alone, life insurers pay out more than $3.1 billion in life insurance and annuity benefits every year, which translates to $8.5 million flowing to families in our state each day. These benefits support people in moments of crisis and help them maintain their stability.

There are currently 3.6 million individual life insurance policies in force in Louisiana, each offering an average death benefit of $85,000. That protection means everything to families working hard to build a better future. Beyond that, the life insurance industry is a key driver of economic growth in our state, generating nearly 28,000 jobs and investing $69 billion into Louisiana’s economy.

That’s why I’m concerned about the proposal to eliminate the corporate deduction for state and local taxes—also known as the Corporate SALT or “C-SALT” deduction. While this may appear to be a corporate tax change, in reality it would make life insurance more expensive for millions of Americans. Life insurers are already taxed differently than most industries, paying state premium taxes based on the total premiums they collect, not on net profits. If these taxes are no longer deductible at the federal level, the increased costs will be passed on to policyholders.

Families and working individuals would feel the impact. More than 97 million Americans receive life insurance through their employers, and over 16 million workers who have their premiums deducted from their paychecks could see reduced take-home pay if insurers are forced to reprice these policies. The elimination of the deduction could amount to the equivalent of a 4 to 7 percent tax hike on the life insurance industry—an increase that will ultimately affect everyday people, not corporations.

Life insurance gives families a financial foundation to stand on, and we should be working to strengthen that foundation, not undermine it. I respectfully urge you to oppose any proposal that would eliminate the corporate SALT deduction for life insurers. Supporting this industry is a direct investment in the financial stability and future of Louisiana families.

OPINION: Digital Advertising Provides Edge in Restaurant Business

The Sundown is a Ruston institution for years, and in that time, much has changed. For example, delivery used to be an option reserved for pizza, but now, with the rise of delivery apps, it’s an everyday thing. Just like with any small business, the only constant is change itself.  One area we’ve seen change dramatically is our ability to reach our customers. 

Thanks to digital and social media advertising, we can place targeted ads that appeal directly to our customers. We can time these ads down to the minute. For instance,  let’s say Tech wins by 20 points. We can launch an ad right after that drinks are 20% off that night, and the ad will run for as long as we want it to.

This is just one example, but it speaks to the quickness with which we can operate. 

The current digital advertising climate is great, but some policies threaten the ecosystem.  There’s legislation being considered in DC that could make it more difficult to connect with our customers and the people of Ruston. I urge Speaker Johnson to keep companies like mine in mind as you consider legislation that will impact digital advertising and social media.

Clinton Hightower

Owner, The Sundown Tavern

OPINION: Carried Interest is Crucial to Small Business Investment

As a small business owner in North Louisiana, I know firsthand how vital investment is for growing businesses, creating jobs, and strengthening our local economy. The current tax treatment of carried interest plays a crucial role in ensuring capital flows into businesses. Yet, Washington is once again considering tax increases on carried interest, threatening the very investments that fuel Louisiana’s economy.

Private equity-backed investments support 141,000 jobs in Louisiana and contribute $20 billion to our state’s GDP. With 85% of private equity-backed companies being small businesses, these investments are a lifeline for job creation and innovation across our communities.

Raising taxes on carried interest would discourage long-term investment and reduce access to the capital that many Louisiana businesses need to grow. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that a proposed tax increase would raise just $13 billion over ten years—less than a day of federal spending—while potentially eliminating 4.9 million jobs nationwide over the next five years. That’s a risk we simply cannot afford.

Congress must reject efforts to increase taxes on carried interest and instead focus on policies that encourage investment, fuel job growth, and support small businesses. A tax hike would stifle the very economic opportunity we need to keep Louisiana competitive and thriving.

Anonymous

LOGA Responds to Jury Verdict in Plaquemines Parish Coastal Lawsuit

BATON ROUGE, LA (April 7, 2025) - A jury in the 25th Judicial District has ruled that LOGA member Chevron must pay $744.6 million in damages in the first of 41 coastal litigation cases to go to trial

In response, LOGA President Mike Moncla issued the following statement:

“Over the past 72 hours, my phone has not stopped ringing.

The one thing I haven’t stopped thinking about is the fact that, within the last year, our state’s Mineral & Energy Board has been desperately begging operators with new incentives to come back and invest in new state leases. Good luck with that…

This decision against industry is yet another black eye for our state.

From the time these lawsuits began a decade ago, oil and gas activity in Louisiana’s state leases and inland waters has declined to nothing.

Drilling is nil, production is a shadow of its former self, and service companies have been starved into bankruptcies

Decades ago, the defendants of these frivolous lawsuits invested in drilling in our coastal region after the state encouraged, incentivized, and gave permits to do so, all the while the state raked in billions of dollars in severance and royalty collections.

This case is as frivolous as the ones by liberal cities like Baltimore who sue oil and gas for climate change -- while they sit in their air-conditioned offices.

Friday’s decision sent a chilling effect throughout the industry. This is a terrible precedent our state has set forth.”

Kennedy, Cassidy applaud Pres. Trump for supporting Louisiana energy production

“We appreciate your decision on Day One to reverse the pause on non-FTA LNG export permitting, and we applaud your administration’s decision for Interior Secretary Burgum and Energy Secretary Wright to visit a Louisiana LNG facility as one of their first energy trips.”

WASHINGTON – Sens. John Kennedy (R-La.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) sent a letter to President Trump to applaud his administration for restoring pro-energy policies in America and recognizing Louisiana as one of the nation’s leaders in energy production.

Key excerpts of the letter are below:

“We are writing to highlight the critical role that Louisiana plays in securing America’s position as the world’s leading liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter. LNG will play a key role in restoring American energy dominance, and our state is ready to increase supply. We appreciate your decision on Day One to reverse the pause on non-FTA [free trade agreement] LNG export permitting, and we applaud your administration’s decision for Interior Secretary [Doug] Burgum and Energy Secretary [Chris] Wright to visit a Louisiana LNG facility as one of their first energy trips.

“Louisiana is the backbone of America’s LNG export industry, accounting for more than 60% of all U.S. LNG exports last year. . . . Under your leadership, the U.S. is positioned to achieve record-breaking LNG exports, reinforcing energy dominance and providing allies with reliable, affordable, and cleaner-burning natural gas.”

. . .

“We look forward to working with you on policies to allow the LNG sector to thrive. Ensuring consistent, predictable policies from the administration and Congress will bolster U.S. competitiveness and reinforce our nation’s energy leadership.”

Read the full letter here.

Governor Landry Joins President Trump to Announce Hyundai Motor Group Selects Louisiana as Site of First-of-its-Kind, $5.8 Billion Steel Manufacturing Facility

Company’s First North American Steel Facility Expected to create 5,500 new jobs in Capital Region

Washington, DC—Today, Governor Landry joined President Trump at the White House to announce Hyundai Steel Company (HSC) selected Louisiana as a first-of-its-kind steel manufacturing facility. It is expected to create 1,400 direct new jobs with an average salary of $95,000. Louisiana Economic Development (LED) estimates the project will result in 4,100 indirect new jobs, for a total of 5,500 new jobs in the Capital Region. Construction is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2026. 

“Hyundai’s decision to invest nearly $6 billion in Ascension Parish speaks volumes about Louisiana’s skilled workforce, robust infrastructure, and our ability to compete for innovative manufacturing facilities,” said Governor Jeff Landry.“This announcement makes clear that Louisiana’s manufacturing sector is roaring back, thanks to our historic tax reforms, and President Trump’s economic policies. I committed to revitalizing Louisiana's economy, and with global giants like Hyundai and Meta now in our state, Louisiana is finally seeing progress.”

Background:

This is the largest single economic development project announcement in our region since the formation of BRAC in 2005. HSC plans to import an estimated 3.6 million tons of iron ore annually to the facility. Completed coils will be shipped out via rail and truck to customers, including Kia, General Motors (GM) and Ford. The largest portion of steel manufactured in Louisiana will be sent to Hyundai Motor Company’s vehicle manufacturing plants throughout the U.S. The mill is expected to produce 2.7 million metric tons of steel annually.

HSC is partnering with the Port of South Louisiana to build a deep-water dock on the West Bank of Ascension Parish to accommodate steel and materials shipments. Other infrastructure upgrades, including road, rail, electric and pipelines, will enable the full development of RiverPlex Megapark, attracting future suppliers and customers. 

To support the project’s workforce needs, River Parishes Community College and the Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS) will develop a new local workforce training center equipped with hands-on skills coaches from LED’s FastStart program and modern learning spaces to provide job-specific instruction and administrative assistance. HSC will also have access to the full suite of LED FastStart workforce recruitment, training and sustainability services.