The 2025 Regular Legislative Session convened Monday at noon as required by the State Constitution. Returning to Baton Rouge, lawmakers say they’re prepared to balance the budget and debate legislation aimed at addressing Louisiana’s auto insurance crisis.

“As I’ve traveled the state visiting members in their districts, the overwhelming priority of constituents shared is the high cost of insurance,” said Speaker of the House Phillip DeVillier. “During the interim, our committee chairs have hosted numerous meetings to take a deep dive into the factors that increase auto rates for consumers and they’re fully prepared to tackle this issue head on. In terms of the budget, we know the only way to spend more on roads and infrastructure, lower taxes and fund education is to take the resources we have and put them to work. Despite a standstill budget, the House is looking to find efficiencies, save tax payer dollars and move the state forward just like we did last year.”

“There’s been a lot of work in the interim around addressing Louisiana’s high auto insurance premiums and the Senate is certainly ready to advance solutions that make sense,” said Senate President Cameron Henry. “The budget always takes center stage during fiscal sessions and it will again this year, but I’m optimistic we’ll be able to find efficiencies, save tax payer dollars and pass a balanced bill that addresses the state’s priorities.”

In the House of Representatives, newly elected member, Annie Spell of Lafayette was officially
sworn into office today to serve District 45. Spell has been named to the Transportation, Health and Welfare and Retirement committees.

Two former House members also took their oath of office as elected Senators. Senator Brach Myers of Lafayette represents District 23 and will serve on the Environmental Quality, Insurance, Labor and Industrial Relations and Retirement committees. Senator Larry Selders of Baton Rouge represents District 14 and will serve on the Finance, Labor and Industrial Relations and State and Senate Governmental Affairs committees as well as the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget.

As of this morning, more than 860 bills have been filed by legislators. Subject matter is limited in odd-numbered years to fiscal issues including but not limited to the budget, tax increases or decreases, exemptions and credits. Additionally, members can introduce up to five bills that are outside the restrictions.

To follow the legislative session in real time, the public can log onto http://www.legis.la.gov to search for bills and watch live streams of committee room and floor debates. Additionally, the legislative mobile phone app, LALEGE can be downloaded from the Apple Store or Google Play. This year, the app has been updated to include a bill search and “find my legislator” function. Other key features include legislator profiles, Senate and House schedules and a visitor’s guide to the Capitol.

The 2025 Regular Legislative Session must adjourn no later than 6:00 pm on Thursday, June 12th
unless extended pursuant to Article III, Section 2 of the Louisiana Constitution.