Louisiana voters cast their ballots on several key constitutional amendments in the recent election, deciding on measures that could impact the state’s judicial system, tax policies, and government structure. The proposed amendments covered a range of issues, from expanding the Louisiana Supreme Court’s disciplinary authority to revising tax regulations and determining how juvenile offenders are prosecuted. Below are the results and details of each amendment that appeared on the ballot.
Constitutional Amendment No. 1 did not pass, with Louisiana citizens voting 35% yes with 221,334 votes, and 65% no with 412,082 votes.
This amendment would expand the Louisiana Supreme Court’s jurisdiction to include disciplinary authority over out-of-state attorneys practicing in Louisiana, particularly concerning unethical legal practices. It would also authorize the state legislature to establish trial courts with limited or specialized jurisdiction.
Constitutional Amendment No. 2 did not pass, with Louisiana citizens voting 35% yes with 224,085 votes, and 65% no with 410,083 votes.
This proposed constitutional amendment sought to revise Article VII of the Louisiana Constitution, which governs revenue and finance, by implementing several key reforms. It would lower the maximum state income tax rate, increase income tax deductions for citizens over 65 years old, and establish a government growth limit to control spending.
The amendment also retains the homestead exemption, preserves tax exemptions for religious organizations, and provides for a permanent teacher salary increase by directing surplus funds toward teacher retirement debt. Additionally, it adjusts the management of constitutional funds related to infrastructure, education, and conservation, creates a Local Revenue Fund, and modifies tax allocations for local governments.
Other financial changes include revisions to property tax valuation, tax sales, and revenue distribution, as well as updates to public access to state revenue and expenditures.
Constitutional Amendment No. 3 did not pass, with Louisiana citizens voting 34% yes with 212,324 votes, and 66% no with 419,366 votes.
This proposed amendment would’ve given the Louisiana Legislature the authority to determine which felony crimes committed by juveniles can be transferred to adult court for prosecution. Currently, certain juvenile cases may be transferred to adult court under specific circumstances, but this amendment would’ve expanded legislative control over the process.
Constitutional Amendment No. 4 did not pass, with Louisiana citizens voting 36% yes with 229,597 votes, and 64% no with 401,499 votes.
This proposed amendment would’ve required that judicial vacancies or newly created judgeships be filled using the earliest available election date rather than delaying until a later scheduled election.
Voters in Fire Protection District No. 2, Sibley, decided whether to renew a 10-mill property tax for 10 years (2025-2034) to fund fire protection services. Citizens voted decided to renew, with 56% voting yes with 52 votes, and 44% voting no with 41 votes.
The tax, estimated to generate $114,000 annually, would support the acquisition, construction, improvement, maintenance, and operation of fire protection facilities and equipment, including fire trucks. It would also help cover the cost of securing water for fire protection and contracting fire protection services. Additionally, a portion of the funds would be allocated to state retirement systems, as required by law.