Attached is the final report from the Sewerage and Water Board Task Force to Governor Jeff Landry.
Read the report here.
Posts filed under Jeff Landry
Governor Landry Creates Office of the State Public Defender
Announces Appointments to the Louisiana Public Defender Oversight Board
Baton Rouge, LA – After signing the bill to create the office of the State Public Defender, Governor Jeff Landry announced his selection to serve as the State Public Defender as well as his appointments to the Louisiana Public Defender Oversight Board.
State Public Defender:
Rémy V. Starns
Public Defender Appointments:
Hon. Paul J. deMahy
Hon. Phyllis M. Keaty
Hon. Freddie Pitcher Jr.
Peter M. Thomson
Governor Landry Holds Signing Ceremony for Bills Passed During His Special Session on Crime
Baton Rouge, LA- Today, Governor Jeff Landry signed 11 bills that were sent to his desk by the Legislature during the Special Session on crime. This special session has been Governor Landry’s top priority since day one. The bills signed today are listed below.
SB 9: Preserving Prosecutions for Rape
HB 3: Expanding Access to Drug Courts
HB 6: Justice for Victims
HB 9: Probation and Parole Violations
HB 10: Truth in Sentencing
HB 11: Offender Rehabilitation
SB 1: Constitutional Carry
SB 2: Concealed Carry Permit Immunity
SB 7: DUI Penalties
HB 4: Post Conviction Reform
SB 5: Pardon and Parole Reform
“Today, we made good on our promise to deliver sweeping reforms to our criminal justice system. Reforms that put the interests of victims before the interests of criminals. Reforms that uplift and support our police officers. Reforms that deliver true justice to the victims of crime. Reforms that make our streets and communities safer for all. I am proud of the work we have accomplished, and I am thankful to the victims of crime, the legislature, and all those involved in this special session. This is just the beginning of our work for a safer Louisiana,” said Governor Jeff Landry.
LANDRY: Crime Special Session is a Success
Louisiana will put the safety of our citizens and the victims of crime first, before the criminals!
Last year I promised the people of this state, if elected Governor, I would do everything within my power to improve the safety of our communities through legislative and executive action.
I can proudly say we have kept that promise.
Victims finally have a voice and will receive the justice our state promised them a long time ago; our law enforcement officers will be supported, and there will be truth and transparency in our criminal justice system.
The good citizens of Louisiana who work hard and play by the rules will be able to pump their gas without fear.
I appreciate the Legislators who worked hard to pass these bills, as well as the victims of crime who had the courage to share their stories.
Governor Jeff Landry
MIGUEZ: Constitutional Carry a "Fundamental Right"
Sen. Blake Miguez had this to say after passage of his historic 2nd Amendment bill regarding carrying of firearms last week:
This past week marks a historic bi-partisan victory for the people of Louisiana as the House passed SB1, the “Constitutional Carry” bill with overwhelming support. Grateful to my colleagues in both chambers and across the aisle for backing this fundamental right. Eagerly awaiting Governor Jeff Landry's signature to officially make Louisiana the 28th state to embrace permitless carry. This is a testament to our commitment to the Second Amendment and the right of law-abiding citizens to protect themselves and their families without undue government interference.
Kennedy, Landry in Shreveport Times: We must return law and order to Louisiana
“Louisianans shouldn’t have to live in fear when pumping their gas, getting groceries or walking in their own neighborhoods.”
MADISONVILLE, La. – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) and Gov. Jeff Landry penned this op-ed in The Shreveport Times to explain how soft-on-crime policies have harmed Louisiana residents. Kennedy and Landry commended the state legislature for working to restore law and order in the state. This piece also appeared in The Daily Advertiser, Houma Today, The Daily Comet, The Town Talk, The News-Star, The Weekly Citizen and Daily World.
Key excerpts of the op-ed are below:
“Louisianans are some of the most hospitable, fun-loving people on earth, and they deserve to live in safe communities where their families can thrive. Yet in far too many parishes, rampant crime has left families too scared to pump their own gas or sit with their children on their front porches.
“This crime wave didn’t appear overnight. It was written into law. The Louisiana Justice Reinvestment Act, a legislative package former Gov. John Bel Edwards championed seven years ago, prioritized the comfort of violent criminals over the safety of Louisiana families. It shortened prison sentences, reduced penalties on repeat offenders and expanded parole options for suspected criminals—all while trying to paint criminals as ‘misunderstood.’
“Look where we are now: Louisiana has the second-highest homicide rate and three of the top 10 most dangerous cities in the country. Criminals steal one car every hour in some parts of our state. Unless we make the necessary changes, an estimated one out of every 14 Black men under age 35 in New Orleans will be murdered.
“As leaders, we cannot sit on our hands and allow failed policies to tear apart more Louisiana families. That is why the Louisiana Legislature’s Special Session on reducing crime was so important.”
. . .
“What you allow is what will continue. Under the Louisiana Justice Reinvestment Act, criminals in Louisiana knew they can destroy property, steal cars and shoot people without facing any serious consequences. And Louisianans live in fear because they knew these criminals wouldn’t face any consequences, too.”
. . .
“Louisianans shouldn’t have to live in fear when pumping their gas, getting groceries or walking in their own neighborhoods. This special session was the first step to taking back our streets and empowering our citizens.”
Read the full op-ed here.
Governor Landry Issues Executive Order: Creates Task Force to Review Failures of the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans
Baton Rouge, LA- Today, Governor Jeff Landry signed an executive order that creates the Governor’s Task Force for the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO). The 14-member task force will review the billing process, the governing structure, and the management and organizational structure of SWBNO. During these reviews, the task force will determine if an opportunity for different governing structures or reorganization exists, and will work to maximize efficiency within SWBNO. EO Attached.
“Those who live in New Orleans are far too familiar with the frequent failures of the Sewerage and Water Board. Widespread flooding and drinking water violations have become second nature to folks in Orleans Parish. The current operating status of the Sewerage and Water Board is not acceptable,” said Governor Jeff Landry. “Through this executive order, we will determine ways to make the board run more efficiently and guarantee tax dollars are being put to proper use.”
The order can be found here.
Governor Landry Opens Special Session to Address Crime in Louisiana
Baton Rouge, LA- Today, Governor Jeff Landry opened the 2nd Extraordinary Session of 2024 focusing on crime. This special session begins to fulfill the campaign promises Governor Landry made to the people of Louisiana to make our safe state and protect our communities.
Remarks as prepared:
Mr. Speaker,
Mr. President,
Ladies and Gentlemen of the House and Senate,
Thank you for your warm welcome and thank you all for the service to the people of our state whose hope for a safer Louisiana brings us to their Capitol. The ongoing debate and day-to-day work we are deeply involved in of improving our economy, of protecting our environment, and of reforming our education system; all lose significant meaning if our communities are not safe. As Attorney General I warned that the goal of criminal justice reform should not be about letting people out of jail, but how to keep people from going to jail.
Those warnings went unheeded. Last year I promised the people of this state, if elected Governor, I would do everything within my power to improve the safety of our communities through both legislative and executive action. Today we continue that process. Everyone in this room is aware that crime has put a national spotlight on our great state.
In 2021 Louisiana had the highest violent crime rate in the nation. In 2022, three of our cities were in the top 10 most dangerous cities in America. 280 people were murdered that year in New Orleans alone, earning that city the title of “murder capital” of the country.
Last year more children were murdered in New Orleans than any year in the past decade.
While these statistics are sobering, they can seemingly be just numbers, or a passing news story.
However, for the victims, it is life altering. The effect of being a victim of crime does not end the day after. For most, the nightmare only begins.
While these victims carry the burden of loss, they are also thrown into the unknowns of a criminal justice system that has forgotten them.
The proposals we layout today were constructed by listening.
Listening to the voices of the people,
Listening to those responsible for protecting us,
Listening to those responsible for administering justice, and
Listening to those who matter the most--the victims of crime.
Today I invite you to meet some of the faces of the crime statistics in Louisiana.
Faces like, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Guzzardo, who are here today on behalf of their daughter Stephanie. In 1995, Stephanie was murdered along with her co-worker at Calendar’s Restaurant in Baton Rouge. Stephanie pleaded for her life as Todd Wessinger pulled the trigger, robbing the Guzzardo’s of their beautiful daughter’s life. They have lived with the pain each day since, with a promise of justice that goes unanswered.
Our criminal justice system has lost balance.
The steps we take to restore that balance are difficult to accept for some. However, when promises are made to a victim’s family and friends, granting them that justice, restores balance. Our capital punishment law serves to bring justice for crimes of horrific violence. When these sentences are handed down, they form a covenant between the State and the victims, and their family and their friends.
Justice requires that we uphold that covenant.
We propose legislation that would declare any and all records or information pertaining to carrying out a sentence be strictly confidential and not subject to public disclosure. Our legislation would make it a felony to violate that law and also allow the victim’s families to recover damages.
Should our State be unable to obtain the necessary drugs, our proposed legislation will provide alternative legal methods of carrying out these sentences that have been approved by our Courts.
Capital punishment is lawful, and we intend to fulfill our legal duty to resume it.
While planning these proposals, I sought the input from those in law enforcement. As a former police officer and sheriff’s deputy, I have seen the best - and the worst a community has to offer. I have walked in the very shoes of those who stand on that thin blue line, protecting us from those who seek to disrupt the peace that we deserve in our communities.
We are honored to have with us today Sheriff Doug Hebert and Sheriff Kevin Cobb, the current and past presidents of the Louisiana Sheriffs Association. They are joined here with several other Sheriffs and local law enforcement officers.
Our law enforcement officers serve you with bravery and dedication; while being underpaid, under appreciated, and under equipped for the tireless, thankless, and dangerous job we ask of them to perform day and night.
They sacrifice their lives for you and me. It’s time we sacrifice more than rhetoric for them.
They encounter the worst. It’s time for us to give them our best.
They have our backs.
It’s time we had theirs.
Risking their lives for us, should not mean risking civil liability when one makes a good faith error or when faced with a meritless accusation.
That is why the qualified immunity we seek in this session will give them confidence and peace of mind as they perform their job. This proposed legislation will also help us recruit the best and brightest into law enforcement. It will reduce the number of unnecessary and in many instances, frivolous lawsuits filed against our officers. All without sacrificing public safety.
I have always stood with these men and women and will continue to protect them when they perform their duties in good faith.
And you should too.
I ask you to reach out to the officers in your district. Seek their advice on the proposed legislation. You will hear from the very best in your communities what they have to offer, who have first-hand knowledge of the criminality prevalent in our state.
I have also listened carefully to our District Attorneys, their Assistants, and many Judges who administer our criminal justice system daily. They have expressed to me their frustration with the leniency of sentencing, and our misguided post-conviction programs that feed recidivism by constantly returning un-reformed, un-repentant, and violent criminals to our neighborhoods.
The revolving door is insulting.
Right now, up to 70% of a sentence may be removed for “good time”. This “good time” requires no effort of the inmate to participate in programs that would provide educational, job skill training, or rehabilitative services. Good time is rewarded to inmates with really no effort on their part.
It’s like a participation trophy for jail!
What we need is truth in sentencing that will incentivize inmates to complete certain re-entry programs, earn a GED, learn a job skill, and in doing so earn a reduction in sentence; preparing them to re-join society in a productive, safe, and responsible manner. Real rehabilitation not only makes our communities safer, but it is cost effective.
Without meaningful reform, those being released come back into the system again and again, making our communities less safe. This has caused violent crime to rise, victims to be put at risk, and our criminal justice system to remain broken.
Where is the cost savings in that?
While many say focus on the cost, I say focus on the cost to society, I say focus on the cost to our citizens in loss of property, in the disruption of their lives, and in the irreparable tragedy of losing a loved one.
In attempting to bring truth in sentencing, we propose legislation that limits the number of claims that may be filed by a convicted felon. These are real monetary saving measures that will help offset any cost associated with other proposals.
The 2-year prescription for filing an inmate claim is currently not enforced, resulting in hundreds of frivolous claims by inmates, costing the state money.
Sadly, we have seen radical activists hard at work to empty our prisons. They disregard the deadlines that are in place for seeking post-conviction relief. Similarly, there has been a complete disregard for policies put in place by the parole and pardon board. We are asking for mandatory deadlines to be put in place, so that victims are not misled.
The legislation will also require that an inmate not commit a disciplinary offense for at least three years prior to a hearing. Any consideration in sentencing should be merit based.
With our focus on the victims, we propose a mandatory 90-day notice be provided to the victims prior to any hearing being granted.
By continuing to focus on victims we send a message that they shall once and for all be heard in the process of criminal justice reform.
And they demand transparency.
The lack of transparency in our criminal justice system is unacceptable.
Neither victims, defendants, nor the general public have access to information about what exactly is happening in criminal courts on a daily basis.
Ask Dr. Patrick Dennis, who is here today and who testified before the Legislature last year about being held at gunpoint by a juvenile, never notified of the trial date, only to learn later that the gunman was released. This same juvenile held 14 other victims at gunpoint within a three-day period.
Ask Elisabeth and Noah Hansard who are here today.
Elisabeth also appeared before the Legislature last year, because her son, Noah, was robbed and shot in New Orleans by a juvenile.
He is now confined to a wheelchair. Elisabeth and Noah have no way to access information about their case in juvenile court and still have no idea if the shooter had a previous criminal record.
Ask Mrs. Sherilyn Price, who is also here with us today and who also testified before you about how she was misled about the murder of her son, the popular comedian Boogie B. Boogie B was struck by a stray bullet in a grocery store parking lot when he was in town visiting his family for Christmas. His mom was never informed of when the perpetrator was arrested nor that a bond hearing was set.
Jania and Jaylan Blount join us today. Their mother, Cassandra, was murdered by her ex-boyfriend in the parking lot outside of her apartment complex.
The perpetrator fled the scene to Tennessee and shot a police officer there. At the time he murdered Cassandra, he had been arrested over 25 times and was on probation.
These women deserve answers to very important questions.
Why was he given probation?
Why was he out on the streets?
What happened in each of his 25 prior arrests?
But these are only a few stories out of thousands that can be told in support of our Truth and Transparency program, which we tried to pass during the 2023 Legislative Session.
Victims and the public have a right to know what is happening in our criminal justice system and where it is failing. Our transparency legislation will allow people to access this information and provide online access to the data from our criminal and juvenile courts. Through this simple and common-sense measure, we hope to ease the suffering of victims, offer more transparency in the legal process, and find better solutions to our crime problem.
Louisiana was once defined by our great cities. They were gems of the South and cornerstones of our State. Over the last two years, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and New Orleans have all made the top ten most dangerous cities in the country; with New Orleans making the list of the top ten most dangerous in the world. Carjackings, homicides, violent crime, and juvenile gangs terrorize our citizens there.
I have listened carefully, I have heard their pleas, I have felt their frustration, I have seen their sorrow, and I have watched as they have wept and prayed for relief from the palpable pain that crime has brought to their neighborhoods.
Ask anyone in the world where Louisiana is and some may hesitate, but ask them where New Orleans is, and they know instantly. It is one of our greatest treasures. Restoring it to greatness and glory, is a tide that will lift all boats.
Sadly, crime is plaguing this magnificent city where right now, one in every 14 black men will be murdered by the age of 35.
Tell me where is the justice in that?
Previous Governors and previous Legislatures have dispatched and funded the State Police in the city at certain times, with the goal of securing the French Quarter and the business district. While these initiatives have had short term success, once relaxed, the effort becomes lost.
I say it is time to secure the entire city of New Orleans, that is why I am proposing a permanent Nola troop. One whose goal is to help protect the entire city and all its citizens, not just the tourist and the business areas.
This entire beloved city deserves to live in peace and safety.
Carjackings are plaguing the city as well and terrifying its residents.
In March 2022 four teenagers ranging from 15 to 17 attempted to steal 73-year-old Linda Frickey’s car. They sprayed Mrs. Frickey with mace, punched her, and in trying to pull her out of the car she was entangled in the seatbelt.
As the teenagers drove away Ms. Frickey was dragged over 200 yards before being dislodged from the vehicle ripping her arm from her body. She died 20 minutes later. Her sister Jinny Lynn joins us today.
Also with us today is Miss Nadia Sanchez of New Orleans whose mother, Jeannot was carjacked in New Orleans in 2018. During her carjacking, the perpetrators rolled over her and killed her with her own car in her own driveway, and in front of her family.
And yet, these are just a fraction of the carjacking horror stories unfolding in our cities underscoring why we propose elevating the mandatory minimum sentencing for carjacking from 2 years to 5 years.
If the act results in bodily injury, the mandatory minimum should be 20 years.
So, to those who make the decision to carjack someone in Louisiana, here me clearly--you better hope the car is full of gas and can you go where we can never find you, because when we do; you will spend a long time in jail!
As you are aware, many of the crimes discussed have been committed by juveniles, highlighting how our juvenile justice system is failing our kids.
Mr. Cortez Collins’s 17-year-old son, Corterion, was senselessly shot and killed in December of 2022, by a juvenile. He was a high school senior. The case was not transferred to adult court as it should have been, and the juvenile who committed will only serve a very few years for Corterion’s murder.
Explain that to Mr. Cortez Collins.
The former Administration’s criminal justice re-investment lowered the age of 17-year-olds charged with a violent crime. By lowering the age, it has resulted in actual incidents of older criminals recruiting 17-year-olds for criminal activity, knowing the consequences would be minimal. It has fast-tracked too many of our teenagers into a life of crime. The effect has been catastrophic.
These juveniles are not innocent children any longer; they are hardened criminals. They violently attack our citizens, our law enforcement officers, and even our juvenile correction officers without hesitation.
Darrelle Scott, was robbed and shot by a 13-year-old while walking in New Orleans East. Darrelle is now paralyzed and confined to a wheelchair. The juvenile was not able to be transferred to adult court because he was too young. He has been moved to an unsecured facility and has escaped repeatedly.
An unexpectable amount of the shootings occurring in Louisiana are being performed by 17 years olds or younger. Corrections officials will tell you that 16 and 17-year-olds have destroyed our juvenile detention facilities. As a result, we are paying other states $600/day per person, to house these violent inmates.
We propose to correct the age by legislating the prosecution of any person 17 years of age charged with a felony, be tried as an adult. Furthermore, the proposal will require all juveniles adjudicated of any violent crime be in custody for a minimum of three years.
I questioned a friend who has been in law enforcement his entire adult life, whether he ever pursued or arrested someone for homicide who possessed a concealed carry permit. He could not cite a single instance.
While criminals carry guns without regard for the law, lawful gun owners are our most law-abiding citizens. Their armed presence helps deter violent crime.
It is time Louisiana join 27 other states who have created a constitutional right to carry a firearm without the government’s permission.
This body has repeatedly passed it.
Now you have a governor who will sign it.
Our proposal does not terminate the concealed permitting process. Many citizens travel to other states with their firearms and their permit will satisfy any reciprocity demands.
We also offer enhanced immunity from liability when one is forced to use a firearm lawfully and has a concealed permit.
We all know that a good person who makes a bad decision deserves a second chance.
We ask that you work with us to expand our drug courts.
It is noted that those completing Drug Court programs receiving structure and supervision are nearly 50% less likely to be arrested again. It is why in 2021 this body passed a bill to do just that. Unfortunately, the bill was vetoed over politics.
Now you have a Governor that will sign it!
Currently, we spend $75 million a year on public defenders for those unable to pay for their own criminal defense. The Louisiana Public Defender system lacks accountability and has strayed from providing defense and moving criminal cases.
We propose to increase transparency and re-focus the mission of providing defenders and support personnel for much needed efficiency.
I would again like to share my gratitude to the weary victims of crime who have joined us here today. I ask you to take the time and show courage in hearing their stories.
When you do…
you will hear what I have heard, you will see their pain, you will witness their patience dissipate, you will feel the burning desire for justice they endure every waking hour, and you will conclude, like me, that the simplicity of right and wrong that once guided society has sadly and dangerously been misplaced.
The propensity of some to signal their virtuous compassion for criminals has become a liberal custom to many, without forethought of the consequences to society and the danger it creates in our neighborhoods and homes.
They turn reckless commentary into political causes which undermine the principles that have made America safe. Today, I ask you to place the voices of the tired, the weary, and the broken-hearted victims of crime in this state, above the irresponsible rhetoric that is destroying our quality of life.
I would like to ask all who have been a victim of crime and all those in law enforcement to please stand.
To the ladies and gentlemen of this Legislature, I say, let this session be about them, and those who protect us.
Let us take back our streets for them.
Let us empower our citizens to live their lives without fear and mourning.
Let us end the irresponsible and deadly tolerance for violence, flagrant theft, and the dealing of deadly drugs.
Our good citizens work hard, play by the rules, and only seek to raise their families in peace.
Let’s place their values above the selfish, criminal minded element that is destroying our quality of life.
I humbly ask that you, they humbly ask you, to adopt these proposals in this session, for the people for the next generation, for our men and women of law enforcement and corrections, and for these victims.
God bless Louisiana and the people we represent.
Governor Landry Issues Executive Order: Declares State of Emergency Due to Officer Shortage in Louisiana
Baton Rouge, LA- Today, Governor Jeff Landry signed an executive order declaring a State of Emergency due to the police officer shortage across Louisiana. The Louisiana Sheriff’s Association estimates that Louisiana sheriffs’ offices were down approximately 1,800 deputies statewide resulting in record-low employment and an increase in response time. EO is attached.
“We applaud Governor Landry for highlighting the importance of the law enforcement profession and our state’s desperate need to fill valuable front line deputy positions,” said Michael Ranatza, Executive Director, Louisiana Sheriffs’ Association.
“As a former police officer and sheriff’s deputy, I understand the vital role our law enforcement officers play in our communities. Currently, our state is facing a shortage of officers, resulting in increased crime and less public safety. Today’s executive order, and the upcoming crime special session, will ensure our law enforcement officers are supported and we can begin to bring law and order back to our state,” said Governor Jeff Landry.
Governor Jeff Landry Issues Statement on Withdrawal of BCBSLA Transaction
Baton Rouge, LA– Today, Governor Jeff Landry issued the below statement following Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana’s withdrawal of its Plan of Reorganization and the cancellation of the LDI hearing.
“From the beginning, we recognized that any transaction such as this would be disruptive to the healthcare landscape of the State. We appreciated the cooperation we received from both parties, our Commissioner of Insurance, and the legislature in both asking the tough questions, looking for solutions, and providing the answers so that the policyholders could make an informed decision and the State would be prepared if such a transaction occurred,” said Governor Jeff Landry.
GROW LOUISIANA COALITION: Governor Jeff Landry Backs Industry and Announces $100 Million for Chevron’s Geismar Expansion Project
“The Oil and Gas Industry built Louisiana and keeps our economy moving. Our administration will always be a strong voice for this industry and support the vital jobs it creates,” said Governor Jeff Landry. The Geismar facility was the first stand-alone renewable diesel production facility in the U.S. when it was completed in 2010. This expansion project is expected to bring 90 new permanent jobs and 1,500 temporary jobs. Once completed, the improvement and expansion project will increase site capacity by 250 million gallons, from 90 million gallons to 340 million gallons per year.
On Monday, February 5, Gov. Landry also signed a proclamation and executive order on behalf of the oil and gas industry. The proclamation states that Louisiana is open for business and the administration will work tirelessly to ensure the oil and gas industry can thrive in our state. The executive order directs the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality to promote the streamlining of permitting processes associated with the oil and gas industry.
Governor Landry Issues Call for Crime Special Session
Baton Rouge, LA- Today, Governor Jeff Landry called the Louisiana Legislature to convene for a special session focused on tackling the issue of crime that is plaguing our state and holding us back. Throughout this session, the legislature will create laws that strengthen our criminal justice system and repeal soft on crime policies that enable criminals and hurt our communities. Executive Order is attached.
“This special session begins to fulfill the campaign promises we made to the people of Louisiana to make our State Safe Again. No one, regardless of their neighborhood or zip code, should feel unsafe. We all want safer communities,” said Governor Jeff Landry. “We will defend and uplift our law enforcement officials and deliver true justice to crime victims who have been overlooked for far too long. I am eager to enact real change that makes Louisiana a safer state for all.”
Louisiana governor vows to help Texas with National Guard troops
Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry (R) on his decision to join governors in helping Texas with the ongoing border crisis
LA Freedom Caucus Supports Gov. Landry Sending National Guard Troops to Texas
BATON ROUGE—The Louisiana Freedom Caucus released the following statement today in support of Gov. Jeff Landry’s efforts to help secure the southern border that Texas and Mexico share:
“Securing this nation’s borders is a crucial and primary duty of our government. The Louisiana Freedom Caucus supports Gov. Jeff Landry in his efforts to help do the job President Biden refuses to do: secure our border. This is a blatant disregard for the safety and sovereignty of the American people,” said Beryl Amedée, Chairman of the Louisiana Freedom Caucus.
“Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has declared the crisis situation at the southern border with Mexico an invasion. A reported eight million people have poured across the southern border in the past three years, unabated, since Biden reversed via Executive Order the successful border policies of President Donald Trump. We should stand with Texas to repel this sea of humanity coming across our border in which all sorts of ugly things hide,” Amedée said.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry makes oil, gas industry announcements
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry made several announcements regarding the oil and gas industries on Monday, Feb. 5.
Landry made the announcements during his keynote speech at the Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas’ annual meeting.
Read more: Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry makes oil, gas industry announcements
Governor Jeff Landry Visits the Southern Border
Eagle Pass, TX– Today, Governor Jeff Landry joined Governor Greg Abbott (TX) and 12 of his fellow governors in Eagle Pass Texas. They received a briefing at DPS headquarters on Operation Lone Star and then held a press conference at Shelby Park in Eagle Pass.
“What we saw and learned today makes one thing very clear: the Biden Administration has completely abdicated its responsibility to enforce the immigration laws on the books. Our open borders allow drugs and human trafficking to flow into our communities, putting our entire country at risk,” said Governor Jeff Landry. “When in trouble, our neighbors in Texas have always opened their arms to us. Now it’s time we return the favor. I look forward to working with our legislative leadership to find a way to send our National Guard troops to the southern border to support Texas. The rule of law must be enforced."
Gov. Landry speaks with General Friloux in Eagle Pass, Tx.
Governor Landry gets briefed at DPS headquarters
Gov. Landry attends press conference with Gov. Abbott
Gov. Landry speaks with Texas Major General Thomas Suelzer
Governor Jeff Landry Releases Transition Council Reports
Baton Rouge, LA– Today, Governor Jeff Landry released the final reports provided by his gubernatorial transition councils.
“The men and women who were part of our transition councils did incredible work for the state of Louisiana. These folks dedicated many hours to give our administration recommendations on how we can begin to address the challenges our state is facing. I cannot thank them enough,” said Governor Jeff Landry.
Agriculture, Fisheries & Land Management
https://oneteam.la/2024/01/26/the-agriculture-fisheries-and-land-management-council/
Coast & Environment
https://oneteam.la/2024/01/26/coast-environment-council/
Constitutional Reform
https://oneteam.la/2024/01/26/the-constitutional-reform-policy-council/
Crime & Public Safety
https://oneteam.la/2024/01/26/the-crime-and-public-safety-transition-council/
Economic Development & Fiscal Policy
https://oneteam.la/2024/01/26/the-economic-development-and-fiscal-policy-council/
Energy, Chemical, & Maritime Industry
https://oneteam.la/2024/01/26/the-energy-chemical-and-maritime-ecm-transition-council/
Healthcare & Hospitals
https://oneteam.la/2024/01/26/the-healthcare-and-hospitals-policy-council/
Infrastructure
https://oneteam.la/2024/01/26/the-infrastructure-transition-council/
Insurance Crisis
https://oneteam.la/2024/01/26/the-insurance-policy-council/
K-12 Education
https://oneteam.la/2024/01/26/k-12-education-policy-council/
Military Issues
https://oneteam.la/2024/01/26/the-military-affairs-council/
New Orleans
https://oneteam.la/2024/01/26/the-new-orleans-transition-council/
Local & Municipal Affairs
https://oneteam.la/2024/01/26/the-municipal-local-affairs-policy-council/
Workforce Development & Higher Education.
https://oneteam.la/2024/01/26/the-workforce-development-higher-education-policy-council/
Gov. Jeff Landry’s First Special Session Concludes
Baton Rouge, LA– Today, Governor Jeff Landry marked the close of the special legislative session on court-ordered congressional redistricting.
Watch Governor Landry’s remarks here.
“Today is an exciting day! The outcome of this special session is a win for the people of Louisiana. We started the process of necessary structural change to our election system, allowing for a cleaner and simpler final ballot, and we took the pen out of the hand of a non-elected judge and placed it in the hands of the people. I applaud those legislators who worked hard to pass these bills, and I look forward to moving on to our top priority—the upcoming crime special session,” said Governor Jeff Landry.
Capitol Update from Governor Jeff Landry
"We had a tremendous victory when we captured the Governor’s mansion. The large crowd who arrived at the Inaugural Ceremony, despite our last minute date and time change, was a testament to the excitement we all feel about the start of a new day in Louisiana.
We have already embarked on real change. We have appointed leaders for many state offices, in many cases new leadership to move us forward. I was proud to stand up for common sense by signing Executive Orders directing state government to begin tracking the cost of illegal immigration. I also stopped attempts to weaken graduation standards.
Now, this week, we have entered into a Special Session prompted by federal litigation regarding redistricting.
No one dislikes this redistricting process we are going through more than I do. I have invested tremendous time and effort in supporting Republican candidates up and down the ballot both here at home in Louisiana and nationally. I have been an activist, a personal donor, and a candidate.
At every step of the way I have worked to support our common sense, conservative values.
Unfortunately, we are at a point where a failure to act in the Legislature on redistricting will result in an Obama-appointed federal judge drawing, possibly three, new Democrat congressional districts. As your Attorney General I helped fight this battle in the courts. Now, Attorney General Liz Murrill and I both agree we must act as a state, in the Legislature, or the Judge will act on their own.
Today, the Louisiana State Senate took the first step in ensuring the voter’s voice is heard in the redistricting process by advancing a new Congressional District map.
The vote of the Louisiana State Senators listed below, today, ensures the State of Louisiana, moving forward, will have four solidly Trump Republican Congressional districts. The map these Senators voted to approve will protect the only female congressional member of our delegation, protect the current U.S. Speaker of the House, protect the Majority Leader of the U.S. House, and satisfy the courts.
Please join me in thanking these Louisiana State Senators who voted to keep a Republican majority representing our great state in Congress:
Senate President Cameron Henry
Senator Jean-Paul Coussan
Senator Mark Abraham
Senator Heather Cloud
Senator Patrick Connick
Senator Rick Edmonds
Senator Bob Hensgens
Senator Valarie Hodges
Senator Caleb Kleinpeter
Senator Patrick McMath
Senator Blake Miguez
Senator Beth Mizell
Senator Bob Owen
Senator Mike Reese
Senator Jeremy Stine
Senator Bill Wheat
Senator Glen Womack
While, again, this process causes me as much concern as it does you, the State Senate's action today protects the Republican Party and conservatives in this state and this country.
Now, another way to ensure we keep four Trump Republican congressional districts is to close the primary elections.
As we work on this redistricting process, driven by the courts, we have a tremendous opportunity to strengthen our elections by moving to an expanded Closed Primary system in Louisiana.
We already use a Closed Primary in the Louisiana Presidential Primary and it works.
President Trump was chosen in Louisiana through a Closed Primary. When we tested closed primaries years ago for additional offices several other well-known Louisiana leaders won their first major election in a Closed Primary, they include Majority Leader Steve Scalise, Treasurer John Fleming, and me. Closed primaries work.
Liberal Democrats should not influence or vote on who might be the Republican on a final election ballot and the same can be said for Republicans seeking to vote on Democrats during the primary process.
It is only fair, and it makes common sense, for Republicans to pick the Republican nominee and for Democrats to do the same.
So, please join me in asking your Legislators to vote "yes" on the Closed Primaries legislation I put forward this week.
If you need their contact information, you can find your State Senator's and State Representative's by using this link here.
Thank you for your ongoing support as we work to strengthen our great state."
For Louisiana,
Governor Jeff Landry
Southwest Louisiana Legislators Endorse Governor Jeff Landry's Bridge Plan
Photo source: Legislative Communications Office (LCO)
Lake Charles, LA – Legislators representing Southwest Louisiana today announced support for Governor Jeff Landry's new I-10/Calcasieu River bridge plan, a significant shift from the previous administration's approach. Governor Landry, in his first visit to Southwest Louisiana as Governor, emphasized the need for transparent and effective infrastructure development, contrasting sharply with former Governor John Bel Edwards' less transparent and costly plan.
Governor Landry's proposal promises a 25% cost reduction from the previous administration’s agreement and introduces a fair toll system with a flat discounted rate for all locals. The group of ten southwest Louisiana lawmakers will work with the Governor and all involved parties to lower that toll cost during the seven year build period. This move underscores the Governor and local leaders’ joint commitment to affordability and community benefit.
Highlighting the recent traffic issues due to severe weather, Governor Landry pointed out that the new bridge would have mitigated these challenges, showcasing the urgency of the project.
Additionally, the plan includes a 15% equity commitment to the Imperial Calcasieu area, ensuring local infrastructure benefits directly from the project. This approach signifies a new era of inclusive and transparent governance.
Legislators backing this effort encourage the community to support this transformative project which is poised to make Southwest Louisiana a model for state-wide infrastructure development. “We are immensely grateful to Governor Jeff Landry for his unwavering commitment to securing a deal that truly benefits the people of Southwest Louisiana,” said the group of legislators. “His dedication to transparency and affordability for this bridge project reflects a genuine investment in the prosperity and well-being of our region.”
Louisiana Legislators endorsing the bridge project include: Senators Mark Abraham, Mike Reese and Jeremy Stine as well as Representatives Ryan Bourriaque, Dewith Carrier, Les Farnum, Brett Geymann, Troy Romero and Phillip Tarver.
The release can be found here
