State Representative Julie Emerson joins the show to reflect on Louisiana’s recent legislative session, emphasizing the significant progress made despite challenges. Although it was officially a fiscal session, much of the focus shifted to insurance reform. Emerson played a key role in reviving parts of the failed Constitutional Amendment 2 (CA-2), breaking it into smaller, more manageable proposals. One major success was securing a $2,250 teacher pay raise by paying down debt to the Teachers’ Retirement System, which will generate savings at both state and local levels. While most districts can fund the raise locally, the state will supplement those that fall short, including charter schools.
Emerson also highlighted efforts to phase out the inventory tax and eliminate the corporate franchise tax, aiming to make Louisiana more business-friendly. Although a proposal to merge the budget and revenue stabilization funds and reduce income and sales taxes didn’t pass, she expressed interest in revisiting it after evaluating future revenue collections.
In addition to tax and education reforms, Emerson authored HB2 and HB3, which manage capital outlay projects and bonding authority. She prioritized infrastructure—roads, bridges, water, and sewer—ensuring state funds are directed toward essential needs. Emerson credited fiscal staff for their support and noted that her approach has become well-known among colleagues. She proudly reported that Louisiana has made historic investments in infrastructure over the past two years, significantly reducing the Department of Transportation’s project backlog.
Overall, Emerson’s work reflects a strategic, pragmatic approach to legislative reform, focusing on fiscal responsibility, infrastructure development, and long-term economic growth.