The Louisiana Senate convened on May 29, 2025, to discuss several significant legislative measures. The meeting began with the passage of House Bill 212, introduced by Representative Orgeron, which amends regulations regarding container sizes for high-alcohol beverages. The bill received unanimous support, passing with 37 votes in favor and none against.
Next, the Senate addressed House Bill 260, proposed by Representative Villio, which aims to enhance penalties related to second-degree murder. This bill, named in honor of Lafayette SWAT officer Corporal Sages Jovillett, who was killed in the line of duty, adds "resisting a police officer with force or violence" to the list of offenses qualifying for second-degree murder. It also includes provisions for manslaughter related to the unlawful distribution of controlled substances. The bill passed with a vote of 37 to 0.
House Bill 375, presented by Representative McMahon, was also passed unanimously. This legislation increases penalties for financial crimes involving prepaid cards, addressing a scheme where individuals fraudulently load low-value cards with higher amounts. The bill aims to deter such fraudulent activities, receiving 37 votes in favor.
The Senate then moved to House Bill 403, which increases fines for certain driving offenses. The bill allocates the increased revenue to the Louisiana Emergency Response Network. After some amendments were discussed and withdrawn, the bill passed with 38 votes in favor.
House Bill 412, introduced by Representative Romero, sought to adjust permit fees for alternative nicotine products. An amendment was adopted to restore the bill to its original form, and it passed unanimously with 37 votes.
Finally, the Senate began discussions on House Bill 445, which pertains to juvenile records and their applicability in criminal history. The meeting concluded with a series of successful votes on the discussed bills, reflecting a productive session focused on enhancing public safety and regulatory measures in Louisiana.