The Links, Incorporated
May 1, 2024
Greetings,
It gives me immense pleasure to extend greetings on behalf of the Southern Area of The Links, Incorporated on the 2024 Louisiana Links Day at the Capitol. This annual event offers an opportunity for us to use our collective voices to advocate on behalf of the communities we serve. As members of The Links, Incorporated, we are on the forefront in responding to the multifaceted needs of African Americans and other persons of African ancestry, and how those needs interconnect with issues and policy making.
In an election year, our commitment to being advocates takes on an enhanced and renewed importance. We are in a perfect position to advocate in support of issues and the implementation of policies and legislation that can impact social changes for all communities. The choices we make as informed and active citizens shape the course of our future. It is vital for us to be not just observers but active participants in the civic conversations around us.
Although the list of topics can be exhaustive, during the Louisiana Links Day at the Capitol, we want politicians to hear the voices of our members and be enlightened on the importance of topics such as food insecurity, HBCU Land Grant Funding, redistricting, maternal health, and education. It is my wish that the urgency in our voices during our LDAC will galvanize our elected leaders and spur them into action. We must continue Raising Our Collective Engagement through Advocacy, Education and Training.
I hope you enjoy the events planned for you and the fellowship amongst the membership as we continue to serve as a catalyst for change Thank you for your dedication and commitment to the 2024 Louisiana Links Day at the Capitol Good luck and much success.
Leading With Intentional Friendship & Service, VanessaFalls
Vanessa Falls Southern Area Director
Avis O'Bryant Chaney– Baton Rouge - Chair
Desiree Honoree Thomas – Baton Rouge
Laverne Toombs – Crescent City - Chair
LaKenya Collins – Crescent City
Petrice Sams-Abiodun– CrescentCity
Kellye Blackburn - Monroe-Grambling - Chair
Katrina Jackson Andrews – Monroe-Grambling
Robyn Merrick – La Capitale - Chair
Cynthia Buggage – La Capitale
Katina Semien Smothers - La Capitale
Courtney Phillips – La Capitale
Vonda Flentroy-Rice – New Orleans – Chair
Tammi Griffin-Major – New Orleans
Arnel Cosey – New Orleans
Yvonne Grubbs Mitchell – Pontchartrain - Chair
JoAnn Southall Stewart – Shreveport - Chair
20th Annual Louisiana Links Day at the Capitol May 1, 2024
Agents of Change, Advocates of Action!
Join your Links sisters from across the state for a day of legislative panels, training, and advocacy, as we discuss the “Louisiana Scorecard: Advancing Equity and Justice".
The 2024 Louisiana Links Day at the Capitol is a daylong conference designed to increase our members’ awareness of and involvement in the public policy-making process in Louisiana. Get ready for an engaging time of education, advocacy, and friendship as we meet in solidarity at the Louisiana State Capitol to discuss the issues that affect our communities the most. As our state lawmakers plan their agenda, please join us to ensure the voice of The Links, Incorporated is heard!
Attire: The attire for Advocacy Day is green and white.
Registration Fee is $50 and it includes registration materials and conference gift, the welcome breakfast, and luncheon. Payment should be made to your chapter.
Service Hours: All full conference participants will receive six (6) service hours for their attendance at the Links Day at the Conference session on Wednesday, May 1.
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
8:00 am - 9:00 am Registration: Governor’s Press Room
9:00 am - 9:30 am Welcome Breakfast and Briefing
Location: Governor’s Press Room, Louisiana State Capitol, 4th Floor
9:30 am - 11:30 am Senate and House Committee Meetings
11:30 am - 11:45 am Photo on the Steps of the Capitol
11:45 am - 12:15 pm Transportation to the Luncheon
12:15 pm - 1:30 pm Louisiana Scorecard: Advancing Equity and Justice Luncheon
Location: Leon R. Tarver Cultural and Heritage Center at Southern University, 8320 G. Leon Netterville Drive, Baton Rouge, LA
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm Transportation to Capitol
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Meetings with your respective Representative
On behalf of the Louisiana LDAC committee, we look forward to seeing you in Baton Rouge!
Linked in Friendship, Connected in Service
Tuesday, April 30, 2024
6:30 p.m. –until (Arrival) Home2Suites by Hilton $126/night-
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
6:00 a.m. – 6:30 a.m.
New Orleans Delegation Traveling by Bus; meet at Lakeside Mall near Dillard’s
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Registration Location – Governor’s Press Room
9:00a.m.–9:30a.m. ContinentalBreakfast–WelcomeBreakfast&Briefing
Location: Governor’s Press Room, Louisiana State Capitol, 4th Floor
9:30a.m.–11:30am. SenateandHouseCommitteeMeetings
11:30a.m.–11:45a.m. PhotoonStepsoftheCapitol
11:45a.m.–12:00p.m. TransportationtoLuncheon
12:15p.m.–1:30p.m.
Louisiana Scorecard: Advancing Equity and Justice Luncheon
Location: Southern University, Leon R. Tarver Cultural and Heritage Center at Southern University, 8320 G. Leon Netterville Drive, Baton Rouge, LA
Panel Discussion facilitated by Katina Simien:
Dr. Renita Marshall, Vice Chancellor – Southern University A&M
Dr. Orlando McMeans, Chancellor – Southern University A&M
Attorney John Pierre, Chancellor – Southern University A&M Power Coalition (Zoom)
Representative Vanessa LaFleur
1:30p.m.–2:00p.m. TransportationtoCapitol
2:00p.m.–3:00p.m. Meetings with your respective Representative
TherewillbeonlyoneshuttlerunfromtheNewAlumniParkingArea(nexttotheMLKCenter),withpickupat11:45a.
L O U I S I A N A
Links Day at the Capitol 2024
Roundtrip from New Orleans on May 1, 2024
Bus transportation is being provided at a cost of $20 per person. Please remit check payable to Pontchartrain Chapter
Pickup time: 6:00am at Lakeside Mall/Dillards Parking Lot
Departure time 6:30am
FIND YOUR LOUISIANA AND U.S. LEGISLATORS
Find My Representative - https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/FindMyLegislators.aspx
John K. Pierre has devoted his career to molding lawyer leaders and being a champion of innovation. He received a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Southern University in 1980, a master’s degree in tax accounting from Texas Tech University in 1982, and a juris doctor degree from Southern Methodist University School of Law in 1985.
After graduating from law school, from 1986 to 1990, Pierre served his country as a Judge Advocates General Corps Officer, or JAG, for the United States Army. In 1990, his next assignment led him to the classroom as he began serving as a faculty member at the Southern University Law Center, where he taught courses, such as tax law, security devices, local government law and more. In addition, he has previous teaching experience as a visiting and adjunct professor at California State University, Southern Methodist University School of Law, Loyola University Law School, Southern University College of Business, Saint Leo’s College, Webster University, Louisiana State University, and Baton Rouge Community College. Beyond the classroom, Pierre has published numerous articles on tax law, sales and contracts, real estate and commercial law, ranging from magazine features to legal journal and law review articles.
In 2006, he transitioned to a leadership role within the institution becoming the vice chancellor of institutional accountability and the evening division. Currently, he has been serving as the Law Center’s chancellor since 2016. Under his tutelage, the Southern University Law Center has thrived as a global legal institution. Year after year, it is recognized for its diversity, world-class faculty, and racial justice efforts. As a progressive leader and visionary, he advocates for technology advancements, community outreach initiatives, and strategic partnerships that ensure access and opportunity are provided to all. In 2023, the Southern University System Board of Supervisors appointed Pierre as the interim executive vice president of the Southern University System.
Beyond the education field, Pierre was involved in the Baton Rouge school desegregation case as co-counsel for the Baton Rouge Branch of the NAACP in Davis v. East Baton Rouge Parish School Board. He was also co-counsel in the landmark case of McWaters v. FEMA
Pierre fervently serves as a transformational change agent and inspiration to legal professionals and thoughts leaders around the globe. He has earned numerous awards for his leadership, innovative strategy, and tireless efforts within the legal and professional realm, including Educator of the Year from the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and Ten Most Dominant HBCU Leaders from The HBCU Campaign Fund. Hampton University, the Baton Rouge Bar Association, and the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus are just a few of the organizations that have bestowed honors upon Pierre throughout his career. Also, his alma mater, Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law, has named him a Distinguished Alumni. Pierre has served as a contributing panelist during national discussions with the Peggy Browning Fund, Thurgood Marshall College Fund, the National Pre-Law Summit, and more.
He remains a member of numerous state and national organizations, including the Louisiana State Bar Association and the Texas Bar Association. Pierre is married to Antoinette Pierre, and they are the proud parents of two adult sons.
Dr. Renita W. Marshall
Vice Chancellor for Academics and Student Support Services-Associate Dean Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center and College of Agricultural
Dr. Renita Marshall began serving as the Vice Chancellor for Academics and Student Support Services-Associate Dean for the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center and College of Agricultural, Human and Environmental Sciences in November 2019. She has been a faculty member within the College of Agriculture and the SU Ag Center since 2007 and served as Professor and Chair of the Department of Agricultural Sciences from 2016 to 2019.
She received her B.S. degree in Pre-Veterinary Medicine (1999) from Southern University and A & M College in Baton Rouge, LA, her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine (2003) from Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine and a MS degree in Biomedical Sciences with a residency completion and Post-Doc in Comparative Animal Medicine (2006) from the University of Missouri-Columbia. In her capacity at Southern University, Dr. Renita Marshall is also the Director of the Southern University Institute for One Health, One Medicine and the Project Director for the Center of Excellence for Nutrition, Health, Wellness and Quality of Life. She has a demonstrated record of successful and productive applied research projects of major importance for health problems in animals and humans.
Dr. Marshall has editorial responsibilities on national review boards and also serves on university, public, and state service committees. An accomplished researcher, animal scientist, veterinarian, extension educator and faculty of the Southern University Ag Center and College of Agriculture, Dr. Marshall prides herself in facilitating partnership development, strategic planning, mentoring students from pre-college through graduate, supporting researchers, faculty, and staff statewide, and giving back to the community. While balancing research, teaching, and extension, she enjoys reading, youth sports and family time with her husband, LTC David Marshall, Jr., her two daughters, Sydney (18) and Karsyn (14) and their four dogs, Chance, Major, Pandora and Prince
Chancellor of the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center
Dean of the College of Agricultural Human and Environmental Sciences
Dr. Orland F. McMeans is a leader in agricultural research and education, currently holding the position of Chancellor of the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center and Dean of the College of Agricultural, Human and Environmental Sciences in Baton Rouge, LA. Assuming his role on September 1, 2019, Dr. McMeans has overseen remarkable growth and progress within both the Ag Center and the College, even amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic. Under Dr. McMeans' guidance, the Southern University Ag Center has achieved unprecedented success, securing increased funding through strategic presentations to legislative bodies, resulting in significant advancements and improvements within the institution. Notably, this includes addressing deferred maintenance projects and facilitating partnerships with esteemed organizations like the United States Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) to establish a pioneering ARS lab on campus, marking a historic milestone for 1890 Land-Grant Institutions. Furthermore, the College of Agricultural, Human and Environmental Sciences has experienced notable increases in enrollment and retention, attributed to various initiatives, such as enhanced financial support for scholarships, the establishment of the Office of Student Success, bolstered recruitment and retention efforts, and extensive outreach programs targeting K-12 students across Louisiana. Prior to his current roles,
Dr. McMeans held diverse leadership positions at West Virginia State College (WVSU), where he made significant contributions to research, public service, and outreach. His tenure at WVSU saw the implementation of impactful programs and the renovation of essential campus facilities, showcasing his commitment to advancing agricultural education and research. Dr. McMeans is actively involved in numerous national, regional, and local organizations, holding leadership positions and memberships that reflect his commitment to agricultural advancement. Notably, he served on the Board of Directors of the Association of Public Land Grant Universities (APLU) and chaired the APLU’s Board on Agriculture Assembly (BAA) Policy Board of Directors. He is also engaged in various committees and steering roles within organizations such as the Association of Research Directors (ARD) and the Experiment Station Committee on Organization and Policy. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science from Alabama A&M University, followed by a Master of Science, and a Ph.D. in Horticulture from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Dr. McMeans further pursued postdoctoral studies in genetic engineering at Virginia Tech. Originally hailing from Theodore, Alabama, Dr. McMeans attributes his success to his upbringing and family support, being the proud son of Rosie M. McMeans Nettles and sibling to Charles, LaTrenia, and Tanjanika. Dr. Orlando F. McMeans is committed to excellence in agricultural research, education, and service, making significant contributions to the advancement of the field throughout his distinguished career.
Southern Area Legislative Agenda Priorities (2019-2024)
The Southern Area Legislative Issues and Public Affairs Committee has identified four (4) critical issues impacting local communities of the Southern Area. These issues are in alignment with the focus of the current administration led by Southern Area Director, Sylvia Carter Perry. These target areas consist of the following: Foster Care System; 2020 Census; Breast Health and Human Trafficking.
Foster Care System Legislation (Primary Focus): Bring awareness, provide education, and encourage advocacy of change regarding the foster care system. Over 20,000 youth ‘age out” of the foster care system each year and a significant number is at a high risk of homelessness, unemployment, and incarceration. Various legislation (Federal, State and Local) such as the Family First Prevention Services Act (effective October 1, 2019), have attempted to provide funding for evidence-based interventions including mental health services, substance abuse prevention-and- treatment services and in-home parent skill-based services. It is important to monitor lawmakers and agencies to ensure funding is used to support youth as they mature into adulthood and transition into the mainstream of society.
• Engage with local and state foster care agencies regarding opportunities for support and awareness.
• Engage with local and state officials regarding legislation and funding for foster care transition programs.
• Present information and provide resource materials during State Links Day at the Capitol.
Breast Health: Bring awareness, provide education, and foster advocacy of change regarding breast health. More than 30,000 new cases of breast cancer are expected to occur among African-American women in the U.S. this year alone. African-American women are about 40% more likely to die from the disease than white women due to disparities that include being diagnosedyounger, being diagnosed ata laterstage witha more aggressive form of the disease and facing barriers to high quality health care.
• Partner with local organizations to provide breast awareness-centered events.
• Observe the Southern Area’s Links in Pink Initiative during the month of October.
• Present information and provide resource materials during State Links Day at the Capitol.
• Support and monitor breast health legislation that focuses on funding for research and increased access to quality and affordable health care on both State and local levels.
Human Trafficking: Bring awareness, provide education and foster advocacy of change regarding human trafficking. Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery. After drug dealing, human trafficking is tied with the illegal arms trade as the second largest criminal
industry in the world, and it is the fastest growing one. Support and monitor legislation that increases funding to State and local governments/agencies to combat human trafficking.
• Provide education regarding the identification of human trafficking.
• Partner with local agencies to combat human trafficking in the community and State.
• Present information and provide resource materials during State Links Day at the Capitol.
Prepared by the Louisiana Links Day at the Capitol Planning Committee (LLDACC)
Louisiana 2012 Legislative Session: March 11th – June 3rd
May 1, 2024
Purpose of Links Day at the Capitol:
To engage in the development of legislative agendas which reflect critical issues of importance in our community at the state level.
Why should I participate in the Louisiana Links Day at the Capitol?
To demonstrate the power that we have collectively, as The Links, Incorporated, and individually.
The Links, Incorporated
To identify yourself and your chapters as a constituent of the elected official.
To introduce your chapter of The Links, Incorporated to the elected official.
To provide your chapter’s interest and viewpoint on critical societal issues.
To request support or opposition for the issue or legislation that you are concerned about.
To provide notice that you will hold the elected officials accountable during their term of office.
To begin or continue your organization’s impact on critical societal issues.
To inform the elected official of your chapter members’ interest in serving on ad hoc committees, task forces, advisory board or other public interest groups assembled to address the identified issue(s).
Legislative Issues and Public Affairs Handbook, 2010
1. Identify your Senator and Representative. You can do that two ways:
a) Go to the legislative website www.legis.la.gov. About the middle of the page you will see a label that says “Your Louisiana Legislators.” Next you will see the question “Who are your state Senators or Representatives?” Then you will see the words “Find Out.” Click on that link. Enter your address and click “Search.” The program will tell you the name of your Senator and Representative. If you click on the names, you will be taken to that legislator’s webpage which will have contact information for that legislator, including email addresses.
b) Look at your Voter Registration Card. Along the bottom of the card there are several boxes. In the box it will say “Senator” or “Rep”. A number will be in the box identifying the district you live in. Once you know the district number, you can go to the legislative website and look for your Representative or Senator using that number or you can do a Google/Bing search with the number (i.e. which Louisiana Senator represents District 1?).
2. Determine your Representative and Senator’s committee assignments.
a) This can be accomplished by following the instructions in 1(a) above. The computer will generate the name of your Representative and Senator. Click on the name of each and you will be taken to a page for the Representative or Senator. For the House member, if scroll down their page you will see their committee assignments. For the Senator, there is a link that says “Committees” to the left of the page. Click on “Committees” to find the information.
Advocacy Manual
LLDAC 2024
Page 2
3. Please be on the lookout for email from the LLDAC planning committee regarding legislative bills. If a bill on the legislative scorecard comes up for vote before May 1st you will receive an email asking each member to call or email the appropriate legislator(s) to ask him/her to support or oppose the legislation. Session begins March 11th
a) The email will provide information indicating if the vote is in committee or on the House/Senate floor. Please call/email your legislator if they are serving on the committee in question, or if the bill is on the floor to express your position. Contact your LLDAC liaison to indicate your legislators’ position on the bill/s.
4. Participate in a training call before Links Day at the Capitol. You will receive an email after March 11th , indicating several dates for a training call related to the legislation on the scorecard. If possible, please participate in one of those calls to learn more about the legislation, our position, and our strategy related to the legislation.
5. Before May 1st, you will receive a copy of the LLDAC legislative agenda. The agenda will list pieces of legislation identified by the LLDACC that we either support or oppose. The scorecard will include the bill number, the author of the bill, the title of the bill and our position on the bill. A copy of last year’s scorecard is attached.
a) To review bills in detail go to www.legis.la.gov. You will see a section called “Bill Search.” You can search bills by author or bill number (HB 1 or SB 1 for example).
b) Consider emailing the scorecard to your Senator and Representative on before May 1st.
Advocacy Manual
LLDAC 2024
Page 3
6. On April2nd , contact (call/write/fax) your legislator to inform him/her that you will be visiting the capitol on May 1st. Be sure to state that you look forward to meeting them while you are at the capitol. If you will not be at the capitol, send the scorecard to your legislators and let him/her know that other members of The Links, Incorporated will be in Baton Rouge.
1. Please plan to participate in the Welcome/Overview. At that time the planning committee will go over any last minute information related to our legislative agenda and the schedule for the day. Often members of the legislature stop by.
2. During LLDAC, please visit at least one committee meeting. A list of committee meetings will be provided in your registration packet.
3. On April 10th a visit of 5 to 10 minutes with your Legislator is very important. You can either meet them outside of their morning committee or while the legislators are in session during the afternoon. You will need to fill out a note that the Pages or Sergeant at Arms will deliver to the legislator. Be sure to give them a copy of the legislative scorecard, which explains our position on several bills. Try to get the legislator to commit to supporting our position. The legislative scorecard will be a part of your registration packet.
4. Before leaving Baton Rouge on May 1st , be sure to complete the LLDAC evaluation form and return it to a member of the LLDACC. Be sure to indicate whether or not you met with your Senator and Representative and whether or not they promised to support our position on the various pieces of legislation.
Advocacy Manual
LLDAC 2024
Page 4
1. After the Day at the Capitol, contact your legislators to thank them for speaking with you (or to indicate that you regret that you were unable to meet with them). If he/she indicated they would support our position, please thank them for their support. If they did not, take to state our position on the legislation and ask the legislator to support our position. Contact your LLDAC liaison to let them know your legislators’ position on the bill/s.
a) If you were unable to meet with your legislator/s in Baton Rouge, call to make an appointment to visit them when they are back in the district as close to April 10th as possible.
2. If a bill on the legislative scorecard comes up for a vote afterApril 10th , an email will be sent asking you to call/fax/email your legislators to ask for their support of our position. LLDAC liaison will contact you to ask that you call or email your legislator to ask for his/her support of our position on the bill.
Date to be determined
The LLDAC committee will designate one day as a statewide Links Call In Day. On that day you will be asked to call (or fax or email) your legislators about a particular piece of legislation. The email will provide all of the pertinent information. Unless otherwise stated, members are asked to only focus on the identified issue for the Call In Day.
Please be sure to let your chapter LLDAC liaison know when you have completed the call or email. We want to track the level of participation in each chapter.
HOUSE STANDING COMMITTEES - https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/Committees.aspx?c=H
Administration of Criminal Justice
Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture, and Rural Development
Appropriations
Civil Law and Procedure
Commerce
Education
Health and Welfare
House and Governmental Affairs
Insurance
Judiciary
Labor and Industrial Relations
Municipal, Parochial and Cultural Affairs
Natural Resources and Environment
Retirement
Transportation, Highways and Public Works
Ways and Means
The standing committee system of the House of Representatives is comprised of the sixteen permanent House standing committees. The committees and their specific respective subject matter jurisdictions are established by House Rules (House Rules 6.1 and 6.6). The chairman and members of each committee are appointed by the Speaker of the House (except that certain members of the Appropriations Committee are elected as provided by House Rules (House Rule 6.4).
The activity role of standing committees will differ during a legislative session from the interim between sessions.
● Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture, and Rural Development
● Commerce, Consumer Protection, and International Affairs
● Education
● Environmental Quality
● Finance
● Health & Welfare
● Insurance
● Judiciary A
● Judiciary B
● Judiciary C
● Labor & Industrial Relations
● Local & Municipal Affairs
● Natural Resources
● Retirement
● Revenue & Fiscal Affairs
● Senate & Governmental Affairs
● Transportation, Highways & Public Works
These committees are comprised of seven members with the exception of six committees: Commerce, Consumer Protection, and International Affairs Committee, Health and Welfare Committee, Insurance Committee, and Senate and Governmental Affairs Committee have nine each. Finance Committee and Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Committee have eleven each.
Each committee has a listing of members, committee jurisdiction, and an e-mail address. Agendas are also available; however, if there is no link to an agenda, then the agenda is not yet available or a meeting has not been scheduled. Additional topical information may vary according to committee.
List of all House of Representatives 2024
Adams, Roy Daryl: hse062@legis.la.gov
Amedée, Beryl: amedeeb@legis.la.gov
Bacala, Tony: bacalat@legis.la.gov
Bagley, Larry: bagleyl@legis.la.gov
Beaullieu, IV, Gerald "Beau": hse048@legis.la.gov
Bishop, Stuart J.: bishops@legis.la.gov
Bourriaque, Ryan: hse047@legis.la.gov
Boyd, Delisha: hse102@legis.la.gov
Brass, Ken: brassk@legis.la.gov
Brown, Chad: brownc@legis.la.gov
Bryant, Marcus Anthony: hse096@legis.la.gov
Butler, Rhonda Gaye: hse038@legis.la.gov
Carpenter, Barbara: carpenterb@legis.la.gov
Carrier, R. Dewith: hse032@legis.la.gov
Carter, Robby: carterr@legis.la.gov
Carter, Sr., Wilford: hse034@legis.la.gov
Cormier, Mack: hse105@legis.la.gov
Coussan, Jean-Paul: coussanjp@legis.la.gov
Cox, Kenny R.: coxk@legis.la.gov
Crews, Raymond J.: crewsr@legis.la.gov
Davis, Paula: davisp@legis.la.gov
List of all House of Representatives 2024
DeVillier, Phillip: devillierp@legis.la.gov
Deshotel, Daryl Andrew: hse028@legis.la.gov
DuBuisson, Mary: hse090@legis.la.gov
Echols, Michael Charles: hse014@legis.la.gov
Edmonds, Rick: edmondsr@legis.la.gov
Edmonston, Kathy: hse088@legis.la.gov
Emerson, Julie: emersonj@legis.la.gov
Farnum, Les: hse033@legis.la.gov
Firment, Michael "Gabe": hse022@legis.la.gov
Fisher, Adrian: hse016@legis.la.gov
Fontenot, Bryan: hse055@legis.la.gov
Freeman, Aimee Adatto: hse098@legis.la.gov
Freiberg, Barbara Reich: hse070@legis.la.gov
Frieman, Lawrence "Larry": hse074@legis.la.gov
Gadberry, Foy Bryan: hse015@legis.la.gov
Gaines, Randal L.: gainesr@legis.la.gov
Garofalo, Raymond E.: garofalor@legis.la.gov
Geymann, Brett F.: hse035@legis.la.gov
Glover, Cedric: gloverc@legis.la.gov
Goudeau, I, Jonathan: hse031@legis.la.gov
List of all House of Representatives 2024
Green, Jr., Kyle M.: hse083@legis.la.gov
Harris, Lance: harrisl@legis.la.gov
Hilferty, Stephanie: hilfertys@legis.la.gov
Hodges, Valarie: hodgesv@legis.la.gov
Hollis, Paul: hollisp@legis.la.gov
Horton, Dodie: hortond@legis.la.gov
Hughes, Jason: hse100@legis.la.gov
Huval, Mike: huvalm@legis.la.gov
Illg, Jr., John R.: hse078@legis.la.gov
Ivey, Barry: iveyb@legis.la.gov
Jefferson, Patrick O.: jeffersonpo@legis.la.gov
Jenkins, Sam: jenkinss@legis.la.gov
Johnson, C. Travis: hse021@legis.la.gov
Johnson, Mike: hse027@legis.la.gov
Jordan, Edmond: jordane@legis.la.gov
Kerner, Timothy P.: hse084@legis.la.gov
LaCombe, Jeremy: hse018@legis.la.gov
LaFleur, Vanessa Caston: hse101@legis.la.gov
Landry, Mandie: hse091@legis.la.gov
Larvadain, III, Ed: hse026@legis.la.gov
Lyons, Rodney: lyonsr@legis.la.gov
List of all House of Representatives 2024
Mack, Sherman Q.: macks@legis.la.gov
Magee, Tanner: mageet@legis.la.gov
Marcelle, C. Denise: marcelled@legis.la.gov
Marino, III, Joseph A.: marinoj@legis.la.gov
McCormick, Danny: hse001@legis.la.gov
McFarland, Jack: mcfarlandj@legis.la.gov
McKnight, Scott: hse068@legis.la.gov
McMahen, Wayne: mcmahenw@legis.la.gov
Miguez, Blake: miguezb@legis.la.gov
Miller, Dustin: millerd@legis.la.gov
Miller, Gregory A.: millerg@legis.la.gov
Mincey, Jr., Buddy: hse071@legis.la.gov
Moore, Pat: hse017@legis.la.gov
Muscarello, Nicholas: muscarellon@legis.la.gov
Nelson, Richard: hse089@legis.la.gov
Newell, Candace N.: hse099@legis.la.gov
Orgeron, Joseph A.: hse054@legis.la.gov
Owen, Charles: hse030@legis.la.gov
Owen, Robert "Bob": hse076@legis.la.gov
Phelps, Tammy T.: hse003@legis.la.gov
Pierre, Vincent J.: pierrev@legis.la.gov
Pressly, Thomas A.: hse006@legis.la.gov
List of all House of Representatives 2024
Riser, Neil: risern@legis.la.gov
Romero, Troy D.: hse037@legis.la.gov
Schamerhorn, Rodney: hse024@legis.la.gov
Schexnayder, Clay: schexnayderc@legis.la.gov
Schlegel, Laurie: hse082@legis.la.gov
Seabaugh, Alan: seabaugha@legis.la.gov
Selders, Larry: hse067@legis.la.gov
St. Blanc, III, Vincent "Vinney": hse050@legis.la.gov
Stagni, Joseph A.: stagnij@legis.la.gov
Stefanski, John M.: stefanskij@legis.la.gov
Tarver, Phillip Eric: hse036@legis.la.gov
Thomas, Polly: thomaspj@legis.la.gov
Thompson, Francis C.: thompsof@legis.la.gov
Turner, Christopher: hse012@legis.la.gov
Vacant - District 93
Villio, Debbie: hse079@legis.la.gov
Wheat, Jr., William "Bill": hse073@legis.la.gov
White, Malinda: whitema@legis.la.gov
Willard, Matthew: hse097@legis.la.gov
Wright, Mark: wrightm@legis.la.gov Young, Rashid Armand: hse011@legis.la.gov
Zeringue, Jerome: zeringuej@legis.la.gov
Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus
Rep. Vincent J. Pierre, Chair, Cynthia Bugguage - Executive Director 225-342-734 (P) 225-342-0364 (F) http://llbc.louisiana.gov/
Louisiana Democratic Caucus
Rep. Matthew Willard, Chair Chris Frink - Caucus Director (225)-342-8654 (P) (225)-219-4381(F)
Louisiana Rural Caucus
Rep. Rhonda Butler, Chair Mechelle Miller-Administrative Director (225) 342-7380 (P) (225) 342-0343 (F)
Louisiana Legislative Women’s Caucus
Rep. Karen St. Germain, Chair, Trin Johnson - Executive Director (225) 342-0334 (P) (225) 342-9854 (F) http://llwc.louisiana.gov/
A bill that has been finally passed by the House and Senate, enrolled, signed by the legislative presiding officers, signed by the governor (or allowed to become law without his signature), and assigned an Act number by the secretary of state. Joint resolutions (proposed constitutional amendments) are bills and are processed as such, except they are not signed by the governor or subject to the governor's veto.
Adjournment sine die ("without a day") is an adjournment without setting a time for another meeting or session. Neither house can adjourn, during a session, for more than three days or to another place without the consent of the other house. Adjournment sine die, as distinguished from adjournment to a fixed hour on a succeeding day, terminates the session for that year. Although the legislature is a continuous body during the term for which its members are elected, any bill or resolution not finally passed in any session is, upon adjournment sine die, withdrawn from the files of the legislature.
Amendment
The modification of a bill or resolution by adding or deleting language or changing wording.
Committee amendment-
Changes in a bill or resolution recommended to the full house by a majority of the committee to which the bill or resolution was referred. Must be adopted by the full house to become a part of a bill or resolution.
Floor amendment -
Amendments offered by a member of the house having the bill or resolution under consideration, usually offered when a bill is being considered on the floor on third reading and final passage.
A bill to authorize payment of funds from the state treasury to a particular department or agency, sometimes specifies a particular purpose.
Capital Outlay Bill - Also an appropriation bill; it authorizes expenditures for the capital construction needs of the state.
Author (coauthors)
The member(s) sponsoring a particular piece of legislation.
A legislative instrument proposed by a legislator(s) to change or enact new statutory law or to repeal existing law (Act), or to propose changes or additions to the constitution (joint resolutions). Statutory law includes the Louisiana Revised Statutes, various codes, and local or special Acts.
Prefiled bill - Original bill that is filed by a legislator with the chief clerical officer of the respective house prior to a legislative session. Such a bill receives a bill number, is printed, and may be assigned to a standing committee prior to a session. On the opening day of the session, it will be formally introduced.
Original bill - The bill as introduced into the legislature that is used in the legislative process until engrossed
Engrossed bill - Original bill prepared with amendments adopted upon initial consideration by the house of origin incorporated into its text. Usually, a bill which incorporates all committee amendments to the original bill adopted during the second reading in the originating house. (Rarely a bill is amended on the floor at second reading and the engrossed bill, including these amendments, is referred to committee.) The engrossed bill is ordinarily the version used on the House floor for debate on third reading and final passage
Reengrossed bill - Refers to a bill to which additional amendments - usually floor amendments - have been added, after its engrossment. Usually these are floor amendments adopted when the bill is considered on third reading and final passage in the house of origin.
Enrolled bill - A bill in its final form, including all amendments adopted in both houses, to be submitted (Joint Resolutions excepted) to the governor for his approval or veto.
The progression and current stage of a legislative instrument from its introduction to passage.
Calendar
(1)The daily listing, in order of precedence, of resolutions, bills, and other documents on which action may be taken.
Regular calendar - Instruments reported by committees and ordered engrossed and passed to third reading on the same day are listed in numerical order and follow those reported on previous days. Most bills are placed on the regular calendar and considered in the order listed.
Subject to call - An instrument may be returned to the calendar subject to call upon approval of a majority of the members present and voting. Instruments so returned are listed in numerical
order and may be called from the calendar for further action or consideration at a later time when the House is in that same order of business. However, members must give at least a day's notice that they intend to call a bill from this calendar.
The proclamation by which the governor or the legislature convenes the legislature into extraordinary session. The subject scope of the session is determined in this written document.
An informal group of legislators, most often organized on the basis of party affiliation, common interest, or regional representation. Also, a meeting of such a group. Some groups refer to themselves as "delegation" rather than caucus.
Expression of legislative tribute of either or both houses by certificate or resolution
A group of legislators of one or both houses which considers legislation, conducts studies, and/or makes recommendations to the Senate and/or House.
Committee of the whole - The entire membership of the House, acting in the capacity of committee to consider the general appropriation bill or other matters. A member other than the Speaker serves as the chairman.
Conference committee - A committee, composed of three members from each house, the purpose of which is to propose to the two houses a means to resolve differences in a bill when the house of origin refuses to concur in one or more amendments adopted by the opposite house.
Interim committee - A special committee created to make a study or investigation during the interim between sessions of the legislature.
Joint committee - A committee composed of members of both houses. May be composed of standing committee members from each house (or certain members thereof) or may be a special joint committee with members selected without regard to standing committee membership. Used during the interim.
Select committee - A committee established by the presiding officer of a house composed of members of that house for a designated purpose.
Special committee - A committee of one or both houses appointed for a limited purpose and discharged upon completion of this function.
Standing committee - A permanent committee of the Senate or House with subject matter jurisdiction defined by rules of its house. Functions both during and between legislative sessions to conduct public hearings on proposed legislation, review proposed administrative rules, make its own studies of problems, make reports and recommendations to the house it serves, etc.
The recommendations of a conference committee to resolve the differences between the two houses when the house of origin does not concur in amendments adopted in the second house. The report must adopt or reject all second house amendments and may include other changes. A digest of a conference committee report must be prepared by the staff before a vote on the report.
A legislative instrument scheduled for hearing by a committee may be voluntarily deferred upon the request of the author or member handling the instrument. An instrument voluntarily deferred without objection may be rescheduled for committee hearing. A legislative instrument is involuntarily deferred when so ordered by a vote of a majority of the committee members present and voting, notwithstanding the request of the author or member handling it to report the instrument. An involuntarily deferred instrument may be rescheduled for a committee hearing (after opportunity for hearing all other House instruments requested to be heard) only by the vote of two-thirds of the committee members present and voting. During a session, the indefinite postponement of a bill usually means that the bill is dead for that legislative session.
A summary of the substance of a legislative instrument which appears at the end of the text of the instrument. It explains changes in the law proposed by a bill. Redigests also include a summary of amendments adopted. Digests of legislation as finally passed comprise the Resume which is the publication describing all legislation passed by the legislature in a given session
A written document issued by the governor to accomplish a purpose over which he has authority, such as establishment of executive branch policies, the declaration of certain holidays, establishment of a study or other commission or committee, or other directive within his power as chief executive. Executive branch agencies may also be created by executive order for a limited period. Termination date varies as specified by law.
An estimate of the fiscal effect of a bill, joint resolution, simple or concurrent resolution which will affect the receipt, expenditure, or allocation of state funds or funds of any political subdivision of the state or that will authorize the issuance of general obligation bonds or other general
obligations of the state for capital outlay purposes. Must be attached prior to consideration by a committee of either house unless a committee decides otherwise. Not a part of the law proposed by the measure to which it is attached.
The 12 month period for which appropriations, budgets and financial reports are made. The state's fiscal year commences on July 1 and ends the following June 30.
Figure of speech meaning the floor of the House or Senate while that body is in session. Referred to in legislative procedure: the bill is "on the floor". Members recognized to speak on debate are said to "have the floor".
The interval between annual regular sessions. Committees can conduct studies and can hear, debate, amend, and determine their reports on pre-filed bills at this time.
A record of daily proceedings of each house: the House Journal, Senate Journal. Also refers to the final compilation of journals which is published as the end of each session as a set (which also includes the Legislative Calendar).
Legislative instrument
One of the following: a bill; a concurrent resolution; a resolution. (Bill includes a joint resolution.)
Legislative intent
The purpose for which a measure is enacted and the meaning of the measure which the legislature intended, often determined in reviewing committee proceeding tapes or transcripts and floor proceedings.
History
Refers to the collection of documents and other indicia that are created during the legislative process and used by the legal community as an aid in the interpretation of law when its meaning cannot be ascertained by the actual text of the law. The degree to which this information is admissible in court depends upon its authenticity and relevancy to the legal proceeding.
Lobbyist
Person paid to represent various interest groups and others to influence the passage or defeat of legislation.
(1)The order of business followed in each house of the legislature in transacting its daily business. (2) A legislative document prepared daily in each house of the legislature by the offices of the House Clerk and Senate Secretary, reflecting expected or proposed action on legislative instruments, organized by the order of business in which action may occur. (Also see Calendar)
To formally file a legislative instrument for introduction by providing a copy to the House Clerk (House Bills) or Senate Secretary (Senate Bills) before the start of a legislative session. (Prefiling deadline is 10 days before a session.) (Also see File a Bill )
The presiding officer of the Senate, elected by the members.
The fixed schedule of consideration of legislative instruments during the course of a legislative day that has been established by the House Rules. (Also see Special Order)
A legislative instrument that generally is used for making declarations, stating policies, and making decisions where some other form of legislation is not required. A bill includes the constitutionally-required enacting clause; a resolution uses the term "resolved". Not subject to a time limit for introduction nor to governor’s veto.
Concurrent Resolution – Resolution to be considered by both houses that can be used to express legislative intent, adopt or change joint rules of the legislature, memorialize congress, and request or direct a state agency to take a specified action. Can also be used to suspend a law. (Also see Suspension of Law)
Joint Resolution – A proposal to change (amend) or repeal existing provisions of or to add new provisions to the constitution. It is designated a House or a Senate bill, with a bill number, and requires passage by a 2/3 majority of each house to be placed on the election ballot. If finally passed by the Legislature, it is given an act number as well. The favorable vote of a majority of all state electors voting on it is required for it to become effective (and a majority of those voting in the local area if it is local in nature).
Simple Resolution – Resolution passed by only one house that expresses an opinion or intent, but does not have the force o f law. It may also be used to change the rules of a house. It takes effect upon adoption.
The period during which the legislature assembles and carries on its business. The legislature meets annually in regular session.
Regular session – In even-numbered years a regular session is restricted to not more than 60 legislative days within a period of 85 calendar days; in odd-numbered years, it is restricted to not more than 45 legislative days within 60 days. The subject matter of regular sessions in oddnumbered years is limited to specified fiscal matters; however, a member may introduce any bill intended to enact a local or special law or may prefile a maximum of five bills not within the subject matter restrictions.
Extraordinary session – Such a session is limited to not more than 30 days. There is no restriction on the number of extraordinary sessions that can be held in one year. The governor may call the session; the presiding officers must call an extraordinary session if a majority of each house petition for an extraordinary session. The call defines the subject scope. Also called a "special session."
Organizational session – Session held on the day legislators take office for the primary purpose of judging the members’ qualifications and elections, taking the oath of office, organizing the two houses, and selecting officers. An organizational session cannot exceed three legislative days.
Veto session – Session required by the constitution to be held on the 40th day following final adjournment of the most recent session to consider all bills vetoed by the governor. Not held if a majority of either house declare it unnecessary in writing
The presiding officer of the House of Representatives, elected by the members.
The officer of the House of Representative whose job it is, in the absence of the Speaker, to preside over the Chamber and, in the event of the disability or absence of the Speaker, to assume the powers, duties, and responsibilities of the Speaker. This office is elected by the members.
A legislative instrument which requests a standing committee or committees to conduct a study of an issue or item during the interim between legislative sessions. A study request does not go through the traditional approval process of other legislative instruments, but rather is adopted if, after a specific period of time, there is insufficient objection made to the proposed study request.
Concurrent – A request for a study by a standing committee of each house of the legislature.
Simple – A request for a study by a standing committee of one house of the legislature.
A new bill recommended by a committee to replace a bill or bills referred to it. The committee reports the bill "by substitute" when it recommends that the bill be substantially rewritten. Resolutions may also be reported by substitute
A special group authorized to study a particular issue and report back to the Legislature. Its members may include legislators appointed by the legislative leadership and citizens from designated groups or associations.
The regular advancement of a bill once it has been reported by a committee and ordered engrossed by the House. Bills that have advanced to third reading will be considered on final passage in their regular course. (Also see Reading of a Bill)
Title (1)A concise statement appearing at the beginning of a bill which is indicative of the object of the bill as required by the constitution and embraces the significant aspects of the subject content of the bill.
(2)The largest subdivision of the Louisiana Revised Statutes. The revised statutes are comprised of Titles 1 through 56.
Governor’s disapproval of an enrolled bill. Has the effect of killing the bill unless the legislature subsequently votes to override the governor’s action by a 2/3 vote of each house. (Also see Session, Veto session.)
Item veto – Power exercised by the governor to veto specified items (single appropriations) of an appropriation bill, although signing the remainder of the bill into law.
Record vote – A formal roll call of a house or committee of the legislature in which each member’s vote (yea or nay or abstention) on a motion is recorded (manually or electronically). Such vote is also recorded in the committee records and minutes and, in the case of floor action, in the Journal of the House or Senate. Certain votes are required to be record votes.
For a list of additional terms go to http://www.legis.la.gov/Legis/Glossary.aspx.