The Louisiana Legislature convened on June 18, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding public defender oversight. The meeting featured significant commentary from various representatives regarding the current state of public defense in the state.

The session began with Representative Bacalow referencing an amendment he proposed last year, which he believes has provided necessary protections. In contrast, Representative Knox raised concerns about Remy Starnes, who he claims is now acting contrary to previous commitments made to the Advisory Committee on Justice (ACJ). Starnes acknowledged that his decisions are subject to a requirement of demonstrating good cause, which opens them up for review by the committee.

Bacalow emphasized that Starnes has not provided any justification for his actions, arguing that the absence of good cause warrants the overturning of his decisions. He highlighted the importance of addressing issues of disparate treatment of women and minorities within the public defense system, asserting that the law mandates the continuation of existing contracts.

Following this discussion, Deirdre Fuller, the chief district defender in the ninth Judicial District Court, addressed the committee. Fuller, who is noted as the first African American female chief in Louisiana and the first woman to hold the position in Rapides Parish, shared her commitment to the public defense system. She highlighted her extensive experience and relationships with national organizations dedicated to public defense, underscoring her dedication to improving the system.

The meeting concluded without further questions, but the discussions raised critical points about accountability and equity within Louisiana's public defense framework. The committee's next steps remain to be seen as they consider the implications of the discussions held during this session.