By: Meg Casper Sunstrom
Chief Communications Officer for
Legislative Communications Office
sunstromm@legis.la.gov
BATON ROUGE – The First Extraordinary Session of 2024 convened at 4:00 p.m., January 15, and included an address by Governor Jeff Landry to a joint gathering of House and Senate members as well as statewide elected officials. Legislators are set to consider redrawing congressional and Supreme Court districts to include additional minority districts for both, as well as closing Louisiana’s primary elections.
“The House and Governmental Affairs Committee met this morning to start educating themselves on the task of redrawing maps and they are set to start considering bills tomorrow,” said Speaker of the House Phillip DeVillier. “Redistricting is a function of the Legislature and we’ll do the work that needs to get done. That way, we can focus on the much larger issues voters sent us to Baton Rouge to tackle,” says DeVillier.
“The governor clearly told the Legislature that the people have sent us here to solve problems and that’s what we’ll do,” said Senate President Cameron Henry. “The Senate accepts that task and will be working diligently to redraw new congressional and Supreme Court maps.”
All legislative proceedings including committee meetings and chamber debate can be viewed at www.legis.la.gov. Additionally, the Louisiana Legislature has a smartphone app (LA LEGE) that combines information from the House and Senate websites into an easy to use format users can access from anywhere.
New to the app this year are daily committee agendas and the ability to search and read bills being considered. The LA LEGE app is available to download free of charge from the Apple or Google Play stores and does not collect any personal information.
Final adjournment for the eight-day special session must come no later than 6 p.m. on Friday, January 23rd.
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Cloud takes oath
BATON ROUGE – Monday, January 8, marked a momentous occasion as Senator Heather Cloud was sworn in for her second term as the dedicated representative of Louisiana’s 28th District in the State Senate.
With unwavering commitment and a passion for public service, Senator Cloud embarks on another term poised to make a lasting impact on behalf of Allen, Avoyelles, Evangeline, Rapides and St. Landry parishes. Having earned the trust and support of the community during her initial term, Senator Cloud stands ready to continue her tireless advocacy for the people of the 28th District. Her dedication to the values and needs of the local residents has been a cornerstone of her service, reflecting her deep-rooted commitment.
Throughout her tenure, Senator Cloud has championed various initiatives aimed at improving insurance, advocating for sound fiscal policy and bolstering infrastructure improvements in her district. Her proactive approach and collaborative spirit have proven instrumental in driving legislative efforts that directly benefit the lives of Louisiana’s citizens.
“I am honored and humbled to continue serving the incredible people of the 28th District,” Senator Cloud stated. “As we embark on this new term, my commitment remains steadfast in representing the voices and concerns of our community. Together, we will strive to build a brighter future for all.”
With a proven track record of leadership, Senator Cloud looks forward to the new term. Not only is this a new chapter for the legislature but also new executive leadership. The swearing-in ceremony marks the beginning of a new chapter in Senator Cloud’s unwavering dedication to public service.
As she took her oath, the senator reaffirmed her pledge to tirelessly serve the interests of the 28th District and uphold the values that unite the community.
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Carrier enters second term
BATON ROUGE – Dewith Carrier entered his second term on Monday, January 8, as District 32 State Representative.
In his comments, he said, “It is definitely an honor to have been sworn in yesterday as District 32 State Representative. My passion is to continue working hard to improve the quality of life for every citizen in my district. Thank you for the opportunity!
“My family attended both of the inaugural ceremonies and I was proud to have them by my side. Your continued prayers for the legislators and the governor are welcomed as we begin the next chapter of working together to make District 32 and our state a better place to live.”
Carrier also announced he was appointed by Speaker of the House Phillip DeVillier to work on the Appropriations Committee, Natural Resource Committee and the Retirement Committee for the next four years.
“I worked hard for District 32 during the last four years, securing funds for various improvements and building a stronger district. I am very thankful to the speaker for his trust and confidence that I will continue to work to the very best of my ability for my district and the entire state of Louisiana while serving. I am looking forward to working with my fellow representatives for a very successful term the next four years.”
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Deviller’s
appointments
noted
BATON ROUGE – Speaker of the House Phillip DeVillier released his committee assignments to legislators as well as the names of committee leadership ahead of the Special Session that began Monday, January 15. The list of chairs includes fourteen Republican leaders as well as two Democrats.
“After meeting with members of the House as well as the Governor, we have selected a group of chairs who can help to advance the priorities of the people of Louisiana and unify our body so they remain focused on what will move our state forward,” said Speaker DeVillier.
“To give people the tools they need to thrive, we have to work together, find common ground and understanding, and advance common sense solutions. This team of leaders is ready and capable of serving in these important roles.”
Leadership appointments include:
•Administration of Criminal Justice
Chair Debbie Villio (R-Kenner)
•Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture and Rural Development
Chair Troy Romero (R-Jennings)
•Appropriations
Chair Jack McFarland (R-Winnfield)
•Civil Law and Procedure
Chair Nicky Muscarello (R-Hammond)
•Commerce
Chair Daryl Deshotel (R-Hessmer)
•Education
Chair Laurie Schlegel (R-Metairie)
•Health and Welfare
Chair Dustin Miller (D-Opelousas)
•House and Governmental Affairs
Chair Beau Beaullieu (R-New Iberia)
•Insurance
Chair Gabe Firment (R-Pollack)
•Judiciary
Chair Robby Carter (D-Amite)
•Labor and Industrial
Chair Raymond Crews (R–Bossier City)
•Municipal
Chair Foy Gadberry (R-West Monroe)
•Natural Resources
Chair Brett Geymann (R-Moss Bluff)
•Retirement
Chair Tony Bacala (R-Prairieville)
•Transportation
Chair Ryan Bourriaque (R-Cameron)
•Ways and Means
Chair Julie Emerson (R-Carencro)
“In making selections for committee membership the focus was fitting representatives’ expertise and interests where they could best be utilized,” said Speaker DeVillier. “We’re happy that each region of the state is well represented and House members are eager to get to work removing barriers, creating opportunities and growing the state’s future. This lineup of committees will definitely get us there.”
The House is comprised of 16 permanent standing committees which are subject matter specific as established by 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 according to rule).
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BATON ROUGE – Speaker of the House Phillip DeVillier released his committee assignments to legislators as well as the names of committee leadership ahead of the Special Session that began Monday, January 15. The list of chairs includes fourteen Republican leaders as well as two Democrats.
“After meeting with members of the House as well as the Governor, we have selected a group of chairs who can help to advance the priorities of the people of Louisiana and unify our body so they remain focused on what will move our state forward,” said Speaker DeVillier.
“To give people the tools they need to thrive, we have to work together, find common ground and understanding, and advance common sense solutions. This team of leaders is ready and capable of serving in these important roles.”
Leadership appointments include:
•Administration of Criminal Justice
Chair Debbie Villio (R-Kenner)
•Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture and Rural Development
Chair Troy Romero (R-Jennings)
•Appropriations
Chair Jack McFarland (R-Winnfield)
•Civil Law and Procedure
Chair Nicky Muscarello (R-Hammond)
•Commerce
Chair Daryl Deshotel (R-Hessmer)
•Education
Chair Laurie Schlegel (R-Metairie)
•Health and Welfare
Chair Dustin Miller (D-Opelousas)
•House and Governmental Affairs
Chair Beau Beaullieu (R-New Iberia)
•Insurance
Chair Gabe Firment (R-Pollack)
•Judiciary
Chair Robby Carter (D-Amite)
•Labor and Industrial
Chair Raymond Crews (R–Bossier City)
•Municipal
Chair Foy Gadberry (R-West Monroe)
•Natural Resources
Chair Brett Geymann (R-Moss Bluff)
•Retirement
Chair Tony Bacala (R-Prairieville)
•Transportation
Chair Ryan Bourriaque (R-Cameron)
•Ways and Means
Chair Julie Emerson (R-Carencro)
“In making selections for committee membership the focus was fitting representatives’ expertise and interests where they could best be utilized,” said Speaker DeVillier. “We’re happy that each region of the state is well represented and House members are eager to get to work removing barriers, creating opportunities and growing the state’s future. This lineup of committees will definitely get us there.”
The House is comprised of 16 permanent standing committees which are subject matter specific as established by 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 according to rule).