The Louisiana Legislature convened on May 12, 2025, to discuss significant transportation issues, particularly focusing on the proposed LIT terminal and associated roadway. The meeting featured a range of stakeholders, including local residents, officials, and representatives, who voiced their opinions on the project.

The session began with public comments, where several individuals expressed strong opposition to the LIT terminal. One resident, Mr. Carroll, urged legislators to vote against the bill until legal permits are issued and ongoing lawsuits are resolved, emphasizing the potential waste of time for all involved. He highlighted the overwhelming number of opposition letters received, noting that only one letter supported the project.

Following Mr. Carroll, Michael Voss, a lifelong resident of St. Bernard Parish, shared his concerns about the proximity of the proposed facility to his home. Voss criticized the lack of communication between state representatives and local residents regarding the project, stating that this meeting marked the first time various stakeholders had gathered to discuss the LIT terminal and roadway. He expressed frustration over the historical relationship between St. Bernard Parish and the Port of New Orleans, citing past projects like the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet (MRGO) that failed to deliver promised economic benefits and instead caused ecological damage.

Voss referred to the proposed roadway as the "Red Herring Highway," suggesting that it distracts from more pressing issues. He also mentioned ongoing legal disputes regarding jurisdiction over the port, indicating that the state legislature had previously transferred authority from the Port of New Orleans to the newly established Port of St. Bernard.

The meeting concluded with a call for further dialogue among stakeholders to address the concerns raised. Legislators acknowledged the importance of community input in transportation planning and the need for transparency moving forward. The discussions highlighted the complexities surrounding the LIT terminal project and the necessity for continued engagement with local residents and officials.