Louisiana voters will weigh in on four key constitutional amendments that could reshape state government operations. The amendments, covering judicial discipline, budget approval processes, and property tax reforms, have garnered support across party lines and are expected to spark significant debate. Voters will have a chance to influence how the state handles budget negotiations, judicial accountability, and property tax delinquency moving forward. Early voting for the election is already underway, with the final day of early voting on Saturday, following the Thanksgiving holiday. Polls will be open on December 7 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
For more detailed information, the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana (PAR) has provided a comprehensive voter guide. Below is an overview of the proposed amendments, drawing from PAR's research.
Amendment 1: Judicial Discipline Reform
This amendment would give the governor and state legislators some influence over judicial discipline in Louisiana. It proposes expanding the existing nine-member judiciary commission that handles complaints against judges. Under the current system, the commission investigates misconduct and makes disciplinary recommendations to the Louisiana Supreme Court, which can only reprimand a judge if the commission suggests it.
Amendment 1 would add five new members to the commission: two appointed by the state House Speaker, two by the Senate President, and one by the governor. These new members would not necessarily be lawyers or judges and could include elected officials. In addition, the amendment would grant the Louisiana Supreme Court the authority to discipline judges directly, without needing a recommendation from the commission. Supporters, like Laura Cannizzaro Rodrigue, argue that this will hold judges accountable for leniency in criminal cases. Critics, including some former commission members, fear it could politicize the process and undermine judicial independence.
Amendment 2: Budget Approval Waiting Period
Amendment 2 proposes a 48-hour waiting period before Louisiana lawmakers can vote on state budget bills after changes are made to them. While there is already a similar rule in place, it can be waived with a simple majority vote in either legislative chamber. The proposed amendment would make this waiting period a constitutional requirement, preventing lawmakers from rushing budget votes without adequate review. This amendment stems from the controversial passing of a $52 billion state budget in 2023, which lawmakers criticized for its rushed process and lack of transparency. The amendment would also require a summary report outlining the changes to the bill to be provided at least 48 hours before the final vote.
Amendment 3: Extension for State Budget Approval
Amendment 3 would allow the Louisiana Legislature to extend the regular legislative session by up to six days to finalize the state budget. If legislators cannot pass the budget by the usual session deadline, this amendment would allow them to avoid calling a special session. Instead, they could extend the regular session in two-day increments, ensuring that negotiations could continue without restarting the entire budget process. This amendment aims to prevent delays and confusion, ensuring a more streamlined process for passing the crucial budget bills.
Amendment 4: Changes to Property Tax Debt Process
Amendment 4 proposes changes to how Louisiana local governments handle overdue property taxes. Currently, property owners who fail to pay taxes may risk having their property auctioned in a "sheriff’s sale." If the sale proceeds, owners can reclaim their property within three years by paying the owed taxes, interest, and penalties. However, following a 2023 U.S. Supreme Court decision that outlawed a similar practice in Minnesota, this process could face legal challenges.
The amendment seeks to change this by giving the state legislature more flexibility in adjusting the process and timeline for handling delinquent property taxes. The proposal would also eliminate much of the process from the state constitution, allowing for future legislative adjustments. Additionally, the amendment would authorize the state legislature to delay property tax payments during a declared emergency.
Louisiana voters have frequently amended the state constitution. Since 1978, 317 proposed amendments have been on the ballot, with voters approving 217 of them. In comparison, the U.S. Constitution has been amended only 27 times since its creation. The most recent constitutional change approved by voters occurred in November 2024, requiring federal revenue from alternative and renewable energy production in the Outer Continental Shelf to be directed to the Coastal Protection and Restoration Fund.
In addition to these amendments, voters will also decide on four more proposed amendments in a special election scheduled for March 29, 2025.