Senator Adam Bass of District 36 addressed the Lions Club on Thursday, January 16, sharing updates on his first year as a Louisiana state senator. Bass discussed legislative sessions held in 2024, which included one regular session, one organizational session, and three special sessions.
“We’ve spent more time in Baton Rouge in session — between the regular sessions and the special sessions — during the last year than any other year in history,” Bass said.
Redistricting Efforts
The year began with a January 2024 session on redistricting, prompted by judicial orders to revise congressional and state supreme court districts. A new minority-majority district was created, stretching from Shreveport to Baton Rouge, though it remains under judicial review. Bass expressed concerns about redistricting for the state supreme court, stating, “I would like to keep north Louisiana where we have a voice on the supreme court.”
Addressing Crime
The first special session focused on crime, with measures targeting Louisiana’s high violent crime rates in cities like Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and New Orleans. Legislators created Troop NOLA for the state police and passed laws allowing 17-year-olds to be tried as adults. Additionally, constitutional carry legislation and a “truth in sentencing” law were enacted.
Insurance and Tax Reforms
The regular session emphasized insurance reform. Reforms aimed at attracting re-insurers have already garnered interest, according to Bass. However, auto insurance reform remains a challenge. A bill promoting lawsuit transparency was vetoed by Governor Jeff Landry.
Tax reform was a focal point of the fourth session. Legislators approved a flat 3% personal income tax and reduced corporate income tax to 5.5%. Parishes were granted the option to eliminate the inventory tax and pass permanent teacher pay raises. Constitutional amendments on these measures will be on the March ballot.
Additional Legislation
Bass highlighted his first bill, the Baby Box Bill, which provides safe, anonymous locations for mothers to surrender newborns. Other notable efforts include legislation for posting the Ten Commandments in classrooms, which is tied up in court, and a bill for educational savings accounts still in progress.
Lithium deposits in Webster Parish also garnered attention. Bass noted a unique revenue split, with 50% of proceeds directed to local entities.
Questions or concerns regarding District 36 can be addressed via email to Senator Bass at [email protected].
The Lions Club meets Thursdays at noon at the American Legion Memorial Hall and is actively seeking new members.