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House passes constitutional amendment bill that could alter state’s tax code | Louisiana

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www.thecentersquare.com – By Nolan McKendry | The Center Square – 2024-11-12 16:15:00

SUMMARY: The Louisiana House of Representatives approved a bill by Rep. Julie Emerson aimed at overhauling Article 7 of the state constitution, with a vote of 81-15. This significant reform, which targets taxation policy and exemptions, is set to go to the Senate and, if passed, will be on the March ballot pending Gov. Jeff Landry’s signature. The bill mandates a two-thirds legislative majority for new tax exemptions and plans to consolidate state funds to provide a permanent $2,000 pay raise for teachers. Despite the increase, Louisiana teachers will still earn $15,000 less than the national average.

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Haynes wanted in on Wildlife bribery scheme too, informant says

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thecurrentla.com – Leslie Turk – 2025-09-11 15:30:00

SUMMARY: Dusty Guidry, a former consultant who pleaded guilty to accepting $800,000 in bribes, testified that Assistant District Attorney Gary Haynes sought involvement in a bribery scheme at the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries. Haynes, on trial for conspiracy, bribery, money laundering, and obstruction, was previously appointed to run Lafayette’s pretrial diversion program after supporting DA Don Landry. Guidry revealed Haynes pressured him to include him in a similar diversion program scheme at Wildlife & Fisheries, receiving checks totaling $90,000. The scheme involved splitting bribes among Guidry, vendor Leonard Franques, and former department secretary Jack Montoucet, who has also been charged. The statewide program never launched.

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OPPJ Comprehensive Plan

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www.youtube.com – KTVE – 2025-09-10 21:15:08

SUMMARY: The Ouachita Parish Police Jury is conducting a series of community meetings to gather public input for their comprehensive plan guiding future growth. Police Jury members, including Larry Bratton from District D, emphasize the importance of reflecting residents’ voices in the master plan. Community members participated in interactive stations, allocating resources to priorities like infrastructure and downtown development, to help shape goals for the next 2, 5, and 20 years. Landscape architect Matt Pizatella and partners from Atlas support the effort. Bratton stresses that without proactive planning, the parish risks costly and less beneficial outcomes in the long term.

OPPJ Comprehensive Plan

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Mayor Cantrell pleads not guilty to federal corruption charges; judge imposes travel restrictions

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www.youtube.com – WWLTV – 2025-09-10 18:17:37

SUMMARY: Mayor Latoya Cantrell pleaded not guilty to 11 federal charges including conspiracy, fraud, obstruction, and making false statements. The indictment links an alleged affair with her police bodyguard, Officer Vappy, to misuse of city funds and efforts to conceal deleted encrypted WhatsApp messages. Although no personal financial benefit is claimed, the charges accuse Cantrell of arranging unnecessary protective details for Vappy, costing taxpayers $70,000. Released without bond, Cantrell must surrender her passport, requires approval for travel outside Louisiana, and is barred from discussing the case with city employees or Vappy. Despite restrictions, court rules her ability to manage city operations remains unaffected.

Cantrell was indicted by a grand jury Aug. 15 as additional charges tacked onto Vappie’s indictment from 2024.

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