Governor Landry Signs Executive Order Creating Fiscal Responsibility Program

Baton Rouge, LA- Today, Governor Jeff Landry signed an executive order establishing a Fiscal Responsibility Program which will monitor state spending and ensure our government operates in the most efficient and effective manner. The Program will be led by Fiscal Responsibility Czar, Steve Orlando, and will be comprised of a minimum of nine members. These include Senators Hodges, Miguez, Boudreaux, and Stine, who were appointed by the President of the Senate. Also included will be Representatives McFarland, Fisher, Tarver and Berault, who were appointed by the Speaker of the House. Executive Order attached.

Fiscal responsibility has been a top priority for Governor Landry. As the Louisiana Attorney General, Governor Landry started a “Fiscal Responsibility Project” and in just the first year, he recognized approximately $1 million in savings. As a member of the U.S. Congress, he returned over 10% of his office budget and asked for it to be used to pay down debt.

“In Louisiana, we always strive to have a government that is of, by, and for the people. A government that runs efficiently and effectively is a government that best serves her people. Throughout my time in the U.S. Congress and as the Louisiana Attorney General, I have prioritized finding ways to cut out fiscal waste and end government bureaucracy. My time as Governor is no different,” said Governor Jeff Landry. “I look forward to the work Steve Orlando and the rest of the members will accomplish, as we seek to build a government in Louisiana as good as her people.” 

Landry Announces Meta Selects North Louisiana as Site of $10 Billion Meta Artificial Intelligence Optimized Data Center

• Project is expected to result in 500 or more direct new jobs, more than 1,000 indirect jobs and 5,000 construction workers at peak.

• Expansive technology campus will occupy 4 million square feet on the 2,250-acre former Franklin Farm mega site.

• This project is expected to be the largest private capital investment announcement in the state’s history.

• Entergy worked with Meta to address energy needs, and Meta will match its electricity use with 100% clean and renewable energy.

• Meta has committed to invest more than $200 million in local infrastructure improvements, including roads and water systems.

RICHLAND PARISH, LA. – Today, Governor Landry joined Secretary of LED Susan Bourgeois in announcing Facebook and Instagram parent company, Meta, will build a massive $10 billion artificial intelligence data center in northeast Louisiana, a transformational investment that cements the state’s status as a major innovation hub and puts this picturesque rural community on the leading edge of a global digital revolution. This facility is the largest of more than 20 Meta data centers around the world.   

“Today, Louisiana begins a new chapter. Today, we are delivering new jobs and economic growth on a scale unimaginable before we took office,” Governor Jeff Landry said. “Meta’s investment establishes the region as an anchor in Louisiana’s rapidly expanding tech sector, revitalizes one of our state’s beautiful rural areas, and creates opportunities for Louisiana workers to fill high-paying jobs of the future. I thank Meta for their commitment to our state, and to the State Legislature for positioning Louisiana to win this project by passing new tax reform legislation that attracts capital investment and improves Louisiana’s business tax climate.”

“Meta is building the future of human connection and the technology that makes it possible. And this data center will be an important part of that mission,” said Kevin Janda, Meta Director of Data Center Strategy. “Richland Parish in Louisiana is an outstanding location for Meta to call home for a number of reasons. It provides great access to infrastructure, a reliable grid, a business-friendly climate, and wonderful community partners that have helped us move this project forward. We’re thrilled to be a new member of the Richland Parish community and are committed to investing in its long-term vitality.”

LED expects the project, one of the largest private capital investments in the state’s history, to spark new economic activity and investments throughout northeast Louisiana as multiple industries benefit from the billions of dollars invested. Meta makes a concerted effort to source labor and materials locally, and partners with local schools and organizations to advance STEAM education and digital skills that can be used to compete in the digital workforce.

“This project is an example of what Louisiana can accomplish when economic development partners play offense rather than waiting for good projects to come to them,” LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said. “Louisiana has been actively positioning itself as a hub for AI innovation, with plans to support startups, grow a skilled workforce, and shape forward-thinking policy. Meta’s historic investment is just the beginning of a bold strategy to drive economic growth through AI, expand and diversify the state’s tech sector, and prove to the world that when Louisiana says that we are ready to compete on the global stage, we mean business.”

To power the data center, which at its largest point extends more than one mile from front to back, Entergy will add clean, efficient power plants to its system to meet growing power demands, including from the data center. Meta has pledged to match its electricity use with 100% clean and renewable energy and will be working with Entergy to bring at least 1,500 MW of new renewable energy to the grid through its Geaux Zero program. In addition, Meta has committed to contribute up to $1 million a year to Entergy’s “The Power to Care” low-income ratepayer support program, a figure that will be matched by Entergy Louisiana.

“This partnership underscores Entergy Louisiana’s commitment to powering progress and driving innovation,” Entergy Louisiana President and CEO Phillip May said. “By supporting this transformational investment, we are not only delivering the energy needed today, but also building the infrastructure that will support a brighter, more sustainable future for all of Louisiana. Together, we’re laying the foundation for economic growth that will benefit generations to come. We could not be more proud to play a critical role in this monumental endeavor.”

In addition to Meta’s commitment to match its electricity usage with clean and renewable energy, the company prioritizes water stewardship in its operations, including minimizing water use at its data centers. Meta has pledged to restore more water than it consumes at this data center by investing in water restoration projects in Louisiana.

To support both the construction and eventual operation of the data center, Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS) has committed $250,000 in Workforce Rapid Response funding to Delta Community College to develop programs and expand capacity. Delta will scale up its construction trades programs to meet the initial construction needs, and partner with peer institutions experienced in developing and delivering curricula for data center operations. 

“The parish is excited about the project we look forward to assisting in every way,” Richland Parish Supervisor Joey Evans said. “I am so proud of the collaboration and cooperation among our state, regional, parish and local partners. The manner in which the communities of Rayville, Holly Ridge and Delhi came together to make this project a reality speaks volumes about our parish’s ability to rise to any challenge.” 

Meta expects construction to continue through 2030 with site work beginning in December. The company has also committed to invest more than $200 million in local infrastructure improvements, including roads and water systems.

The company is expected to take advantage of a new Louisiana incentive program, established by Act 730, that offers qualifying projects a state and local sales and use tax rebate on the purchase or lease of data center equipment. Meta is also expected to participate in the state’s Quality Jobs program. 

“This project will create a transformational change for the residents of the entire Northeast Region,” Grow NELA President and CEO Rob Cleveland said. “Meta chose northeast Louisiana because of the availability of reliable, low-cost energy; access to flat, developable land and a business-friendly environment led by Governor Landry. This project opens the floodgates for data center development in Louisiana, and we are prepared for what’s ahead.”

Trump’s Energy Shakeup Will Spare Carbon Capture

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

US President-Elect Donald Trump is promising plenty of 180-degree pivots when it comes to energy. Yet one priority of the current administration is likely to stick.

Carbon capture and storage has bipartisan support, with advocates touting it as an important tool for paring pollution. Under outgoing President Joe Biden, the Environmental Protection Agency has put CCS at the center of efforts to curtail power-plant emissions.

But greenlighting the infrastructure necessary to transport all that trapped carbon dioxide away from power stations and refineries — and then lock it underground — has proved anything but easy.

Read more: Trump’s Energy Shakeup Will Spare Carbon Capture

Governor Jeff Landry Concludes Historic Tax Reform Special Session

Fulfilling Campaign Promise of Growing Louisiana’s Economy 

Baton Rouge, LA – Today, Governor Jeff Landry marked the close of the special legislative session on Tax Reform. When Governor Landry ran for office, he promised the people of Louisiana that he would work to achieve a government as good as the people of Louisiana. As Governor, he has focused on fixing crime, improving our education system, and rebuilding our economy.  This special session, he achieved his goals of putting more money in people’s pockets, making Louisiana more competitive, ensuring citizens pay less money to government, fixing the fiscal cliff—providing our teachers a much-deserved pay raise, and simplifying our tax code—eliminating special interest loopholes. 

Governor Jeff Landry gives end of session address

When I took office, I promised you that I would fight for bold reforms, that I would challenge the status quo, and that I would never rest until Louisiana was a place where opportunity and prosperity were available to all. 

We worked on public safety and we have seen tangible results. We worked on education with reforms that place the parent and teacher at the front of the line.  

We promised you that we would work on Louisiana’s economy.  

To do that, we knew that we have to overhaul our outdated and bloated tax code—giving people and businesses an incentive to come to Louisiana. 

Today, we have taken the first huge step.  

Today we have made generational change in this State. We now stand at the threshold of a new era for Louisiana, having just concluded a historic tax reform session.  

If you are sailing to get somewhere, it is always easier if you are sailing with the wind to your back.  

If you find yourself ,like this State, with the wind in your face you no longer can sail the same way.  

Our State has been trying decade after decade to sail with the wind at our face. 

Our only way to get ahead is to change our position so that the wind is at our back. And if you are sailing is not an easy maneuver, and it is most difficult on the first turn.  

I am happy to announce to the people of our great State, that our Legislature, for the first time in decades, maybe 100 years, has made that difficult turn. 

And for that I and each of you should be grateful.  

We came into this session wanting to accomplish FOUR major things… 

To give everyone in Louisiana a tax cut, so you spend less of your money to fund this government. 

We wanted to make our state more competitive, so we can attract more jobs and have higher wages. 

We wanted to the fiscal cliff, and provide our teachers a much-deserved pay raise.  

And we wanted to simplify our tax code, eliminating special interest loopholes and give us a more sustainable budgets.  

And today I am happy to say that with our new “Louisiana Forward” playbook, Louisiana will now be ON the playing field! 

We ensured citizens are paying less money to government by lowering income taxes, nearly tripling the standard deduction, and FULLY eliminating income taxes for the working poor.  

For every hard-working Louisianan, this tax package means one thing: more of your hard-earned money will stay in your pocket.  

Whether you are a young family just starting out or a senior citizen enjoying the fruits of a lifetime of labor, you will feel the relief of a tax code that works for you—not against you. 

But that’s not all. 

We made Louisiana more competitive by abolishing the corporate franchise tax, sending a resounding message to the world that Louisiana is now open to new businesses, to new industries, and to new opportunities.  

We fixed the fiscal cliff by cutting state debt. In turn, we were able to give our teachers a permanent pay raise— a much-deserved win for our unsung heroes. 

We gave an extra tax cut for our seniors, ensuring that those who have spent a lifetime building Louisiana’s future can retire with dignity and peace of mind. 

And we have FINALLY made the state budget more sustainable by collapsing rates—and creating simpler rates across the board. 

Of course, we still have much work to do.  

But today is a HUGE step in the right direction!  

My thanks go out to the members of the legislature who worked hard to get these much-needed reforms passed.   

Our great staff,

As well as Revenue Secretary Richard Nelson and his team!

We’ve shown what happens when we put partisanship aside and work together for the greater good of Louisiana. 

This administration does not follow the status quo of empty promises.  

When we make a promise to the people of Louisiana, we fulfill that promise.  

This tax package is a  

WIN for the people of Louisiana. 

A WIN for the businesses in Louisiana,  

And A WIN for those looking for a reason to call Louisiana home. 

Together, we are building a Louisiana that works for everyone--where opportunity isn’t just a dream, but a reality for every person, every family, and every business.  

A Louisiana where the best days are still ahead of us. 

It is time to Come Back Home!  

Louisiana is ready for you! 

LA FREEDOM CAUCUS ISSUES STATEMENT AT CLOSE OF THIRD EXTRAORDINARY SESSION

BATON ROUGE—The Louisiana Freedom Caucus released the following statement upon the adjournment of the Third Extraordinary Session of the State Legislature.

“It is the primary purpose of the Louisiana Freedom Caucus to bring fiscal responsibility to the state of Louisiana. That’s a very tall but important order,” said Beryl Amedée, Chairwoman of the House Freedom Caucus. “We will be dedicating all of our efforts between now and the fiscal session next April of 2025 to identify and bring bills forward to force efficiency and cut waste and fraud in our bloated budget.”

“Under Governor John Bel Edwards, our budget doubled in size to over $50 billion dollars,” Amedée continued. “For a state with a dwindling population of 4.5 million people, this is an obnoxious number. Nearly half of our budget is federal funding. We must be prepared for the reality of what that dependency means in a time when President Donald Trump seeks to greatly reduce federal spending.”

LA FREEDOM CAUCUS CONDEMNS 5TH CIRCUIT COURT RULING AGAINST 67 LA SCHOOL DISTRICTS

BATON ROUGE—The Louisiana Freedom Caucus released the following statement on the decision by the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals to let stand the injunction against the January 1, 2025 implementation of the 10 Commandments law passed earlier this year by the state legislature.

“Only five of Louisiana’s 72 school districts filed a lawsuit against the state in an attempt to bar the implementation of a law that would require posting the 10 Commandments in school classrooms amid other materials,” said Beryl Amedée, Chairwoman of the Louisiana Freedom Caucus. “This decision disenfranchises the other 67 school districts.”   

“Given the amount of Marxist propaganda covering the walls in some of our public schools today, the legislature passed a law to give space to an historical document reminding our students of the Judeo-Christian principles that undergird the founding of our great nation,” Amedée continued. “We did not require the removal of any of the rainbow of indoctrination materials currently there but mandated space for the 10 Commandments to inform our students of vital elements of our American history.”

Governor Landry Requests a Fiscal Responsibility Program in State Government

Baton Rouge, LA – Governor Jeff Landry sent a letter to President Henry and Speaker DeVillier asking them to join him in creating a "Fiscal Responsibility Program". The program will first begin by examining the current services state government is mandated to perform and probe for the most efficient, modern ways to provide those services. This project will also explore whether those services should still exist and what other services our government might perform to give the best possible service at the lowest, most reasonable cost. LETTER ATTACHED.

"Together, we can take bold steps to make our state more competitive. By identifying new savings, eliminating waste, and streamlining government operations, we can build a leaner, more effective government,” said Governor Landry. “This will create the space for even more substantial tax reductions in the future. I look forward to working with our legislative leaders on this critical issue."

 Read more here

Province of Alberta Joins Renamed Governors' Coalition for Energy Security, Gov. Landry Announces

BATON ROUGE, LA – Today, Governor Jeff Landry (LA) announced that the Province of Alberta, Canada, has joined the newly renamed Governors' Coalition for Energy Security (GCES), bringing the organization’s membership into the international arena and boosting the combined strength of the 14 U.S. states already represented.  Launched in September as the Governors' Coalition for Energy Choice to help Americans tackle the high costs of energy and accelerating energy cost inflation, the joining of the Province of Alberta highlights the shared interest of all members in ensuring affordable, reliable and cleaner energy for their people. 

Premier Danielle Smith joins the organization founded by Governors Landry and Chris Sununu (NH), as well as 12 other colleagues who joined: Governor Mark Gordon (WY), Governor Eric Holcomb (IN), Governor Kay Ivey (AL), Governor Brian Kemp (GA), Governor Bill Lee (TN), Governor Kristi Noem (SD), Governor Tate Reeves (MS), Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders (AR), Governor Kevin Stitt (OK) and Governor Glenn Youngkin (VA).

“Our mission as an organization has not changed but Alberta’s welcome arrival to our group sparked a conversation about what our core mission is, and that is ensuring energy security in all its forms,” Gov. Landry said. “We welcome Premier Smith and the insights she will bring to enhance and protect energy options, lower energy costs, and increase reliability.” 

"I am honored to join the Governors Coalition for Energy Security and would like to extend my sincere thanks to Governors Landry and Sununu for the invitation. Alberta plays a vital role in North American energy security, serving as the largest supplier of crude oil and natural gas to the United States. With 200 billion barrels of recoverable oil, 200 trillion cubic feet of recoverable natural gas, significant natural gas liquids, and ample pore space for carbon capture, Alberta’s contribution is set to grow even further as we look to work with the Trump Administration and other US partners to  increase our pipeline capacity to our greatest friend and ally, the United States. We are proud to collaborate with this coalition of allied States in advancing energy security, reliability, and affordability for Americans and Canadians,” said Alberta Premier Danielle Smith.

The goals of the GCES remain unchanged and they are to ensure families and businesses have the right to choose the energy they need, to minimize permitting and other regulatory barriers, limit expensive energy mandates, focus on affordability and reliability of energy infrastructure, and to coordinate to positively manage energy resources and the environment.

Chairman Derek Babcock's Statement on the Historic Tax Session in Baton Rouge

Dear friends,

A year ago, we elected a conservative Governor and Legislature to put Louisiana on a new path. In less than a year, the Governor and Legislature have already cut the state budget by over $2 billion. Last week, the Legislature convened to debate and discuss the largest tax reform plan since the 1970s. Similar tax reform measures have benefited other states; for example, North Carolina has seen a $11,000 increase in median household income.

I applaud the Governor and our Legislature as they continue to meet, refine, and improve this historic tax plan. This plan is projected to be the largest tax cut in Louisiana history and will provide guardrails to limit the size and scope of state government for the present and into the future. If you haven't already, I encourage you to watch the governor's press conference and read more about the plan at the links below.

It is a great time to be a Republican in Louisiana, and I'm excited to finally have a governor and a legislature working together to move Louisiana forward!

Jeff Landry Opening Address to Special Session on Tax Reform

CCA Louisiana and Chevron Build New “Super Reef” in South Timbalier

Along with Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Danos and Reef Maker,
the new reef will improve marine habitat and fishing

Coastal Conservation Association’s REEF Louisiana Program, in partnership with Chevron, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Danos, and Reefmaker-Walter Marine, completed construction on the South Timbalier Block 63 Reef this week.

This project is made of 36 “Super Reefs” designed by Reefmaker. The pyramid-shaped structures are comprised of concrete, steel rebar and limestone rocks. They are built to mimic natural reefs and support many varieties of marine life. There are windows on each side of the panels, allowing for turtle and diver escape, alike. The western section of the South Timbalier 63 reef will consist of twenty-four 8-foot-tall pyramids whereas the eastern part of the reef will be built with twelve 15-foot-tall pyramids.

Read more: CCA Louisiana and Chevron Build New “Super Reef” in South Timbalier

GOV. LANDRY AND LOUISIANA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICIALS TRAVEL TO SOUTH KOREA TO CULTIVATE BUSINESS AND DIPLOMATIC TIES

BATON ROUGE, La. – Governor Jeff Landry arrived in Seoul, South Korea to lead a series of meetings with business executives and government leaders of one of the state’s most important trading partners and foreign direct investors. The trip, the governor’s first overseas economic development mission since taking office in January, is designed to strengthen relationships with major South Korean companies currently doing business in Louisiana or considering future investments in the state. South Korea is Louisiana’s 11th largest export market, and fourth largest import market; the total combined value of imported and exported goods in 2023 was $4.55 billion. Korea is also the world’s third largest liquefied natural gas importer in the world, which includes exports from Cheniere and Cameron LNG facilities in south Louisiana.

Among the state officials joining the governor are Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan Bourgeois, LED Chief Business Development Officer Paige Carter, LED Director of Business Development Jacob Ellis, Transoceanic Development CEO Greg Rusovich-who serves as Chairman of the Louisiana Board of International Commerce, and Senator Eddie Lambert

“Business success begins with building strong relationships. I promised Louisiana that we would focus on the businesses and industries that built this state, and South Korea has a long history of business relationships with Louisiana. We look forward to our work this week with Secretary Bourgeois to enhance those relationships and bring more jobs and investment back to our state," said Gov. Landry

“The logistical advantages of doing business in Louisiana have placed the state at the epicenter of world trade for centuries,” LED Secretary Bourgeois said. “Our leadership in energy innovation, coupled with the expansion of our port network and container terminal capacity, have created unique advantages in the intense competition among states vying for new foreign investment. By proactively enhancing alliances with important trading partners like South Korea, the governor is positioning Louisiana to win.”

Governor Jeff Landry Issues Call for Tax Reform Special Session

Baton Rouge, LA—Today, Governor Jeff Landry called the Louisiana Legislature to convene for a special session focused on rebuilding our outdated tax system and growing our economy.  The special session will begin on November 6th and end no later than 6:00 PM on November 25th. The Tax Session Call is attached.

“This special session fulfills the promise we made to the people of Louisiana to rebuild our economy and make Louisiana a place where people want to raise a family and create jobs,” said Governor Jeff Landry. “Throughout this special session, we have the opportunity to give teachers a permeant pay raise, put more money in every worker’s pocket, eliminate the tax on prescription drugs, and provide much needed tax relief for seniors. I am eager to enact this new playbook and finally make Louisiana a beacon of hope—inviting families and businesses back home. It’s time we move Louisiana Forward.”

The call to convene can be found here.

Governor Jeff Landry Announces Major Win for Independent Pharmacies

Will give pharmacies more options and create improved access to life saving medications 

Baton Rouge, LA–Today, Governor Jeff Landry announced the approval of an emergency contract that will improve reimbursement rates for independent pharmacists and will give Louisianans better access to prescription medications. Independent pharmacies will have the choice to be reimbursed under the old terms of the contract or they can be reimbursed using the National Average Drug Acquisition Cost (NADAC) model. 

“Under this emergency contract, pharmacists will have a choice.  Independent pharmacies will have the opportunity to remain in their current contracting arrangement or opt in to the newly created arrangement available only to independent pharmacies. No longer will our local pharmacies continue to lose money as they try to serve their community. This is a major win for local pharmacies and the people of Louisiana,” said Governor Jeff Landry. 

Background:

Under a previous contract negotiated under the former governor (that did not receive Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget approval), many independents could no longer service Office of Group Benefits (OGB) members because they were losing money to fill prescriptions.  This created pharmacy deserts in some of the rural areas of the state, and it impacted patient choice. Since January, at the direction of Governor Landry, the administration including Heath Williams, the newly appointed Office of Group Benefits CEO, have been working on innovative solutions that will help Louisianans have better access to prescription medications while also aiding struggling hometown independent pharmacies across the state.

The Conservative Case for KOSA

Photo source: CNN

In a time where technology permeates every facet of our lives, ensuring the safety of our children online is paramount. The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) stands as a critical legislative effort to protect our youth from the dangers lurking on the internet. 

Just this past week, Moon Griffon did an interview highlighting the importance of this bill. He spoke with Brandon Guffey, a state representative from South Carolina, about the bill and how the issue affected him personally. 

Guffey has become a prominent advocate for the Kids Online Safety Act following the tragic suicide of his 17-year-old son, Gavin. In July 2022, Gavin Guffey became a victim of sexual extortion after being manipulated by an online scammer on Instagram. This scam led to Gavin's untimely death, which has deeply impacted his family and driven his father to take action against Big Tech.

He joined Moon Griffon last week to speak about his story and how KOSA could save children like his son Gavin.  

Listen to Moon’s Interview Here: 

Other conservatives from across the country has stood up and supported KOSA as well!

Kellyanne Conway, a strong conservative advisor for President Trump said of the bill: "Increasingly, children are vulnerable to online distortion and exploitation due to social media use. Social media can be a force for good, but also lurking there are traffickers, drug dealers, and other bad actors." 

Mercedes Schlapp echoes this sentiment, stressing the accountability of Big Tech: "Big Tech must be held accountable for refusing to protect children from online harms. It’s past time for social media platforms to prioritize the safety of children by adding stronger privacy settings and preventing the promotion of harmful content to minors."

The Conservative Case for KOSA

1. Protection from Exploitation and Abuse: The internet, while a tool for education and connectivity, has become a breeding ground for predators. KOSA aims to curb the exploitation of minors by implementing stringent privacy settings and giving parents more control over their children's online activities. As Morgan Ortagus, a former State Department spokesperson, states, "By requiring social media platforms to enable strong private settings by default, our minors will be better defended against the exploitation attempts visible every day on these platforms."

2. Safeguarding Mental Health: The mental health crisis among teenagers, exacerbated by social media, is a pressing concern. Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti points out, "Algorithmic social media platforms have devastated teen mental health." KOSA addresses this issue by ensuring platforms prioritize the mental well-being of young users.

3. Bipartisan Support Reflects Urgency: Former Governor Mike Huckabee notes, "Protecting America’s children is not a political issue, but a public safety concern that transcends the normal horizontal political spectrum of left/right." The bipartisan nature of KOSA underscores its importance and the universal agreement on the need for such protections.

4. Holding Big Tech Accountable: Harmeet Dhillon, a staunch advocate against Big Tech’s overreach, asserts, "The Kids Online Safety Act will put rules into place to prevent these platforms from exploiting vulnerable kids and will give families a remedy against the CEOs who offer false apologies but enable these practices for profit and ideological reasons." KOSA ensures that Big Tech companies are no longer immune to the consequences of their inaction.

KOSA represents more than just a legislative act; it embodies a commitment to pro-family and pro-America values. The Kids Online Safety Act is a crucial step in safeguarding our children online. . 

Louisiana has a unique opportunity with the amount of power concentrated in Washington DC that hails from the bayou. It’s time for our leaders in Washington to step up and support the Kids Online Safety Act now!

Op-ed: Senator Bill Cassidy’s Leadership in Carbon Capture is a Game-Changer for Louisiana’s Economy

Louisiana is on the verge of a transformative economic boom, thanks to the leadership of U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy. Carbon capture, a critical component of our future energy infrastructure, is not just a tool for environmental protection—it is also poised to attract billions of dollars in new industrial investments to the state. With over $20 billion in announced carbon capture projects in Louisiana, the state stands to gain approximately $90 million in permanent jobs and $80 million in local tax revenue. Sen. Cassidy’s efforts have positioned Louisiana as a leader in the low-carbon economy, creating a win-win scenario for both the environment and economic development.

Carbon capture is an essential part of decarbonizing industries, and Louisiana is uniquely situated to take advantage of this opportunity. The state's geography, with its extensive industrial base and geology suitable for carbon sequestration, makes it a natural hub for this technology. As industries and governments worldwide look for ways to reduce carbon emissions, Louisiana is ready to serve as a model for the future. 

Sen. Cassidy has been instrumental in bringing federal resources to the state, securing significant funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). This funding has enabled several major carbon capture projects to move forward. For example, the Direct Air Capture (DAC) hub, known as Project Cypress, located in Southwest Louisiana, will receive up to $603 million in federal funding. This project alone is expected to create 2,300 jobs and remove one million metric tons of CO2 annually from the atmosphere​.

In addition to Project Cypress, Louisiana is home to numerous other carbon capture projects, such as the $46.8 million in grants for CO2 storage initiatives in the Louisiana Chemical Corridor and offshore storage hubs near Monkey Island​. These projects are not only creating immediate jobs but also laying the foundation for a long-term economic boom as companies look to invest in cleaner, more sustainable technologies.

His leadership has also fostered collaboration with academic institutions like Louisiana State University (LSU), ensuring that the state remains at the forefront of energy innovation. The National Science Foundation (NSF) is partnering with LSU and several other leading state universities, including the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, McNeese State University, and Southern University, on a groundbreaking initiative to explore the use of carbon capture technologies and hydrogen as alternative fuels. 

This research provides $160 million in critical funding to develop next-generation, low-carbon technologies. Recently, FUEL connected Louisiana industry to NewLab entrepreneurs throughout the country in an effort to spur innovation and drive business growth through carbon capture. FUEL’s goals extend beyond technology and research. A portion of the grant funding will go to supporting job creation through workforce development programs that can reach all corners of our state.

The importance of carbon capture for Louisiana’s economy cannot be overstated. Not only are these projects creating thousands of good-paying jobs, but they are also generating innovation, new business ventures, and significant ripple effects throughout the state economy. As the global economy shifts towards low-carbon markets, industries that rely on carbon capture will continue to grow, bringing even more investment and opportunities to the state—including increasing demand for low-carbon steel, sustainable, lightweight plastics, and power for data centers. 

Louisiana’s future as an energy leader is bright, and much of that success can be attributed to Sen. Cassidy’s efforts. His work to secure federal funding and promote carbon capture technology has set Louisiana on a path to economic growth, ensuring we remain relevant in the increasingly global energy market. Thanks to Sen. Cassidy’s vision and leadership, Louisiana is poised to lead the way in the energy transition, creating a cleaner, more prosperous future for all.

Governors' Coalition for Energy Choice Expands with Two New Members

Baton Rouge, LA — The Governor’s Coalition for Energy Choice, spearheaded by Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry and New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu to address high energy costs and mitigate energy cost inflation across the United States, is pleased to welcome Governor Tate Reeves of Mississippi and Governor Kay Ivey of Alabama to the coalition, further strengthening its reach and impact. The coalition now includes twelve governors from the following states: Louisiana, New Hampshire, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Indiana, Wyoming, Arkansas, South Dakota, Oklahoma, and Virginia.

The Governors' Coalition for Energy Choice will assist state leaders in developing smart energy policies to benefit working families, businesses, and communities.

The coalition's goals include:

1. Guaranteeing continued energy choice—that resources of all types remain available to consumers

2. Reducing permitting and other regulatory barriers

3. Restricting expensive energy mandates

4. Focusing on the affordability and reliability of energy infrastructure

5. Promoting positive management of energy resources and the environment

“Affordable energy is too important to the future of our country to accept anything less than full-on American energy independence,” said Gov. Tate Reeves. "I look forward to collaborating with fellow governors to ensure Mississippians, and all Americans can enjoy the freedom to choose their energy now and in the future.”

“Governors Landry and Sununu are leading an important bipartisan effort to help ensure energy policies put families and consumers over politics, and I am glad to join their coalition,” said Gov. Kay Ivey.

"We're thrilled to welcome Governor Reeves and Governor Ivey to our coalition," said Gov. Jeff Landry. "Their expertise and commitment to affordable, reliable energy will be invaluable as we work together to shape energy policies that benefit all Americans."

Governor Landry Honors Hurricane Francine Heroes

Baton Rouge, LA—Today, Governor Landry honored several Louisiana citizens who went above and beyond to serve their communities during Hurricane Francine. Each of the hurricane heroes received a commendation recognizing their heroic work during the storm. Those in attendance were Miles Crawford-a nurse at University Medical Center, Hunter Hughes and Zachary Hooge from Watson, and the Fisher Middle High School Football team from Lafitte, La.  

“In the worst of times here in Louisiana, we always see communities come together to support each other. These folks today represent the best of Louisiana, and I am honored to officially recognize them for their actions,” said Governor Jeff Landry. 

Miles Crawford rescued a man trapped inside his vehicle by floodwaters in New Orleans.

Hunter Hughes and Zachary Hooge, two 16-year-olds from Watson, LA helped their community by fixing generators before Hurricane Francine made landfall.

The Fisher Middle High School Football team in Lafitte helped deploy over 60,000 sandbags over the course of two days to protect homes and businesses from rising water.

HEALTH FREEDOME COALITION: Public Comment Requested as Louisiana's Select Committee on Homeland Security Convenes to Review the State's Response to COVID-19

Next week begins the first in a series of legislative hearings to review Louisiana’s response to COVID-19. Following the passage of State Representative Chuck Owen’s HR133, a resolution requesting the hearings, the House Select Committee on Homeland Security will convene on September 25 and 26 with discussions focused on the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) and the state’s medical licensing boards. The agendas for Wednesday, September 25th and Thursday, September 26th include testimony from the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP), the Louisiana Department of Health, the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners, the Louisiana State Board of Nursing, the Louisiana Hospital Association, and the Louisiana Nursing Home Association.

The government’s response to covid was an attack on our civil liberties which subsequently threatened the health, economy, and security of our state. As such, the House Select Committe on Homeland Security has been assigned the task of evaluating the state’s response to covid and offering effective policy changes so that public health is never again used as a means of undermining our state’s security. Chairman Jay Gallé and Vice Chair Chuck Owen along with Representatives Beryl Amedée, Josh Carlson, Raymond Crews, Kathy Edmonston, Peter Egan, Brett Geymann, Danny McCormick, and Phillip Tarver have been entrusted to ask tough questions to ensure that harmful policies are addressed. Many of these legislators fought covid overeach for years while others stepped into public office because of the government’s response to covid.

These hearings are an opportunity to examine all aspects of covid policies implemented by LDH in regard to public health including isolating loved ones in long-term care, social distancing, universal masking recommendations, and vaccine mandates.

The public, including healthcare workers and those affected by policies implemented in healthcare settings like hospitals and long-term care facilities, are invited to comment publicly or submit written testimony.

Future hearings will review covid policies in education and executive orders from the governor’s office.

Statements may be filed with the House Select Committee on Homeland Security via e-mail at hschs@legis.la.gov.

Kennedy commends Louisianians for their strength during Hurricane Francine: ‘My people are tough as a pine knot’

“My people are tough as a pine knot, but they're also compassionate—and we made it through.”

WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) spoke on the Senate floor to praise the people of Louisiana for their perseverance during Hurricane Francine. Kennedy also explained what types of federal aid Louisiana will receive to help facilitate cleanup efforts in the state.

Key remarks from Kennedy include:

“I am sorry to report that last week my people in Louisiana were hit by yet another hurricane: Hurricane Francine. It was a Category 2. It was right on the line between a Category 1 and a Category 2. We had winds of 100 miles an hour. We had nine to 10 inches of rain. We had a vicious storm surge.

“My people did what they always do: They got ready for it, they reacted to the storm with grace and with pressure. My people filled sandbags, and we checked on our neighbors and we listened to our local officials. We said prayers for our first responders. My people are tough as a pine knot, but they're also compassionate—and we made it through.

“Some have said, ‘Well, compared to past hurricanes, Francine was not as bad as some in the past.’ And that's true. It could always be worse, but that is cold comfort for the thousands of Louisianians who sustained damage from that storm surge and those ferocious winds and that rain.

“And I want to assure my people that, as we have in the past, we will persevere, and we will make it through. I have never, in my years in the Senate, voted against providing relief for any of our sister states and my fellow senators who have asked for it, who have been the victim of a natural disaster—and I never will.

“That's the first role of government is to protect people and property. And I will never vote against aid for one of our sister states that, through no fault of its own, is struck by nature. I say that because I will be asking the American people to help Louisiana one more time. We won't ask for a penny more than we need. The help that I will seek will be in the form of personal assistance and housing, for example, infrastructure assistance and mitigation grants.

“I want to thank President Biden, Governor Landry, with whom I toured by helicopter the damage last week. Governor Landry asked for a disaster declaration for the president, and President Biden was quick to agree. I want to thank him for that.”

Watch Kennedy’s full speech here.