Louisiana

Louisiana Ethics Board to Live Stream Public Meetings Amid Lawmaker Concerns Over Transparency

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BATON ROUGE, La. — The Louisiana Board of Ethics has decided to broadcast its public meetings online, a move prompted by complaints from lawmakers seeking greater transparency in government operations. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility for citizens, ensuring they can participate and engage with discussions surrounding ethics in the public sector. The decision follows feedback from members of the Legislature who expressed concerns regarding the limited public engagement at board meetings, which have traditionally been held behind closed doors. Lawmakers advocated for a solution that would allow the public easier access to the proceedings, … Read more

Accountability in Legislation: Proposing Penalties for Unconstitutional Bills in Louisiana

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BATON ROUGE, La. — A local advocate is calling for significant changes in the legislative process regarding unconstitutional bills. Amelia Ballew Mims has proposed a system where lawmakers would face penalties if their introduced legislation is deemed unconstitutional. The suggestion aims to hold legislators accountable for the consequences of their actions on the state’s governance. Mims argues that legislators are frequently introducing laws that jeopardize the health and well-being of Louisiana residents without facing repercussions. She posits that those responsible for putting forward such measures should be obligated to reimburse the state for the time … Read more

Louisiana Law Enforcement Launches ‘Click It or Ticket’ Initiative to Boost Seatbelt Compliance Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend

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BATON ROUGE, La. — In an effort to boost road safety during the Memorial Day weekend, law enforcement agencies across Louisiana are intensifying their vigilance against seatbelt violations. This increased enforcement is part of a wider initiative known as the “Click It or Ticket” campaign, running through June 1. Drivers and passengers found without seatbelts can expect fines of $50 for first-time offenses. Louisiana classifies not wearing a seatbelt as a primary violation, which underscores the state’s commitment to road safety, according to the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission. Lisa Freeman, executive director of the Louisiana … Read more

Louisiana GOP Blocks Bill Aimed at Ending Jim Crow-Era Split Jury Verdicts

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BATON ROUGE, La. — A proposal aimed at eliminating split jury verdicts in Louisiana faced rejection from state Republicans, marking a setback for efforts to address a legal practice dating back to the Jim Crow era. The proposed legislation sought to require unanimous verdicts in felony cases, a shift that advocates argue is essential for ensuring fairer trials and better justice. The measure was brought forward by a bipartisan coalition hoping to reform a system that has long been criticized for its roots in racial discrimination. In Louisiana, non-unanimous jury verdicts have allowed convictions based … Read more