Congressional Bill Could Slash Credit Card Rewards, Impacting Holiday Shoppers and Small Businesses

The holiday season is a time for family gatherings, festive celebrations, and, of course, shopping. As American consumers gear up for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the gift-giving season, many are increasingly relying on credit card rewards systems to make their purchases go further. From earning cashback on everyday spending to taking advantage of travel points for holiday trips, credit card rewards programs offer valuable opportunities to stretch budgets, save money, and even enhance the overall holiday experience.

One of the most straightforward benefits of credit card rewards is cashback. Many credit cards offer cashback on all purchases, but some provide enhanced rewards during the holiday season or for certain types of spending, such as at department stores, online retailers, or grocery stores. Cardholders can also earn more cashback on certain types of other spending, such as travel, dining, or online shopping, which tend to increase during the holidays. Consumers who use cashback credit cards can accumulate rewards quickly from everyday holiday spending, helping to offset costs for gifts, travel, food, and decorations. This cashback can then be used to pay down credit card balances, reducing interest payments, or can be redeemed for statement credits or gift cards to put back into the holiday budget.

The holiday season can be financially stressful for many consumers. Credit card rewards systems help alleviate some of that stress by providing flexibility and extra spending power. Consumers can use the rewards they’ve earned throughout the year to offset some of their holiday expenses, reducing the financial burden of gift shopping, hosting parties, or taking a family vacation.

Credit card rewards programs have become an invaluable tool for American consumers looking to stretch their budgets during the holiday season. From earning cashback on purchases to redeeming points for gifts or travel, credit card rewards help ease the financial burden of the holidays. It is also a tool for small, family-owned businesses who rely on these rewards systems to draw in customers during the holiday season. However, this tool may be under threat with possible new legislation from Capitol Hill. 

Congress is poised to pass the Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA) as part of a larger end-of-year legislative package. While this bill is presented as a win for consumers, aiming to reduce credit card processing fees and increase competition among card networks, the reality is far more complex. If enacted, the Credit Card Competition Act could harm consumers, particularly during the holiday season when spending spikes. Because of new pressures introduced by the CCCA, credit card companies may have to cut money-saving saving programs to offset the costs of lower processing fees. For consumers looking forward to the benefits of holiday shopping, it’s essential to consider the full impact of this bill before it becomes law. The Credit Card Competition Act may sound good on paper, but it could leave shoppers with fewer choices, higher costs, and a more frustrating holiday shopping experience.

It is crucial that Congress oppose this bill, and begin to promote competition by removing the regulations that hinder it—not create more. 

Province of Alberta Joins Renamed Governors' Coalition for Energy Security, Gov. Landry Announces

BATON ROUGE, LA – Today, Governor Jeff Landry (LA) announced that the Province of Alberta, Canada, has joined the newly renamed Governors' Coalition for Energy Security (GCES), bringing the organization’s membership into the international arena and boosting the combined strength of the 14 U.S. states already represented.  Launched in September as the Governors' Coalition for Energy Choice to help Americans tackle the high costs of energy and accelerating energy cost inflation, the joining of the Province of Alberta highlights the shared interest of all members in ensuring affordable, reliable and cleaner energy for their people. 

Premier Danielle Smith joins the organization founded by Governors Landry and Chris Sununu (NH), as well as 12 other colleagues who joined: Governor Mark Gordon (WY), Governor Eric Holcomb (IN), Governor Kay Ivey (AL), Governor Brian Kemp (GA), Governor Bill Lee (TN), Governor Kristi Noem (SD), Governor Tate Reeves (MS), Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders (AR), Governor Kevin Stitt (OK) and Governor Glenn Youngkin (VA).

“Our mission as an organization has not changed but Alberta’s welcome arrival to our group sparked a conversation about what our core mission is, and that is ensuring energy security in all its forms,” Gov. Landry said. “We welcome Premier Smith and the insights she will bring to enhance and protect energy options, lower energy costs, and increase reliability.” 

"I am honored to join the Governors Coalition for Energy Security and would like to extend my sincere thanks to Governors Landry and Sununu for the invitation. Alberta plays a vital role in North American energy security, serving as the largest supplier of crude oil and natural gas to the United States. With 200 billion barrels of recoverable oil, 200 trillion cubic feet of recoverable natural gas, significant natural gas liquids, and ample pore space for carbon capture, Alberta’s contribution is set to grow even further as we look to work with the Trump Administration and other US partners to  increase our pipeline capacity to our greatest friend and ally, the United States. We are proud to collaborate with this coalition of allied States in advancing energy security, reliability, and affordability for Americans and Canadians,” said Alberta Premier Danielle Smith.

The goals of the GCES remain unchanged and they are to ensure families and businesses have the right to choose the energy they need, to minimize permitting and other regulatory barriers, limit expensive energy mandates, focus on affordability and reliability of energy infrastructure, and to coordinate to positively manage energy resources and the environment.

Chairman Derek Babcock's Statement on the Historic Tax Session in Baton Rouge

Dear friends,

A year ago, we elected a conservative Governor and Legislature to put Louisiana on a new path. In less than a year, the Governor and Legislature have already cut the state budget by over $2 billion. Last week, the Legislature convened to debate and discuss the largest tax reform plan since the 1970s. Similar tax reform measures have benefited other states; for example, North Carolina has seen a $11,000 increase in median household income.

I applaud the Governor and our Legislature as they continue to meet, refine, and improve this historic tax plan. This plan is projected to be the largest tax cut in Louisiana history and will provide guardrails to limit the size and scope of state government for the present and into the future. If you haven't already, I encourage you to watch the governor's press conference and read more about the plan at the links below.

It is a great time to be a Republican in Louisiana, and I'm excited to finally have a governor and a legislature working together to move Louisiana forward!

Jeff Landry Opening Address to Special Session on Tax Reform

CCA Louisiana and Chevron Build New “Super Reef” in South Timbalier

Along with Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Danos and Reef Maker,
the new reef will improve marine habitat and fishing

Coastal Conservation Association’s REEF Louisiana Program, in partnership with Chevron, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Danos, and Reefmaker-Walter Marine, completed construction on the South Timbalier Block 63 Reef this week.

This project is made of 36 “Super Reefs” designed by Reefmaker. The pyramid-shaped structures are comprised of concrete, steel rebar and limestone rocks. They are built to mimic natural reefs and support many varieties of marine life. There are windows on each side of the panels, allowing for turtle and diver escape, alike. The western section of the South Timbalier 63 reef will consist of twenty-four 8-foot-tall pyramids whereas the eastern part of the reef will be built with twelve 15-foot-tall pyramids.

Read more: CCA Louisiana and Chevron Build New “Super Reef” in South Timbalier

GOV. LANDRY AND LOUISIANA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICIALS TRAVEL TO SOUTH KOREA TO CULTIVATE BUSINESS AND DIPLOMATIC TIES

BATON ROUGE, La. – Governor Jeff Landry arrived in Seoul, South Korea to lead a series of meetings with business executives and government leaders of one of the state’s most important trading partners and foreign direct investors. The trip, the governor’s first overseas economic development mission since taking office in January, is designed to strengthen relationships with major South Korean companies currently doing business in Louisiana or considering future investments in the state. South Korea is Louisiana’s 11th largest export market, and fourth largest import market; the total combined value of imported and exported goods in 2023 was $4.55 billion. Korea is also the world’s third largest liquefied natural gas importer in the world, which includes exports from Cheniere and Cameron LNG facilities in south Louisiana.

Among the state officials joining the governor are Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan Bourgeois, LED Chief Business Development Officer Paige Carter, LED Director of Business Development Jacob Ellis, Transoceanic Development CEO Greg Rusovich-who serves as Chairman of the Louisiana Board of International Commerce, and Senator Eddie Lambert

“Business success begins with building strong relationships. I promised Louisiana that we would focus on the businesses and industries that built this state, and South Korea has a long history of business relationships with Louisiana. We look forward to our work this week with Secretary Bourgeois to enhance those relationships and bring more jobs and investment back to our state," said Gov. Landry

“The logistical advantages of doing business in Louisiana have placed the state at the epicenter of world trade for centuries,” LED Secretary Bourgeois said. “Our leadership in energy innovation, coupled with the expansion of our port network and container terminal capacity, have created unique advantages in the intense competition among states vying for new foreign investment. By proactively enhancing alliances with important trading partners like South Korea, the governor is positioning Louisiana to win.”

Governor Jeff Landry Issues Call for Tax Reform Special Session

Baton Rouge, LA—Today, Governor Jeff Landry called the Louisiana Legislature to convene for a special session focused on rebuilding our outdated tax system and growing our economy.  The special session will begin on November 6th and end no later than 6:00 PM on November 25th. The Tax Session Call is attached.

“This special session fulfills the promise we made to the people of Louisiana to rebuild our economy and make Louisiana a place where people want to raise a family and create jobs,” said Governor Jeff Landry. “Throughout this special session, we have the opportunity to give teachers a permeant pay raise, put more money in every worker’s pocket, eliminate the tax on prescription drugs, and provide much needed tax relief for seniors. I am eager to enact this new playbook and finally make Louisiana a beacon of hope—inviting families and businesses back home. It’s time we move Louisiana Forward.”

The call to convene can be found here.

OPINION: Concern About Prescription Drug Access

Prescription drug access is a major concern for patients like me. As someone who lives with diabetes, I take prescriptions daily to help manage my symptoms, and the harmful policies that pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) use to cut costs and boost profits have me gravely concerned about my ability to stay on top of the prescription drug regimen my doctors have put me on.

It isn’t right that PBMs can interfere in doctors’ decisions by enforcing overly restrictive policies. Both policies reduce or limit patients’ access, leading to delays or interruptions in care that can undermine healthcare outcomes.

PBMs are also denying patients the critical manufacturer rebates and discounts that could help lower our out-of-pocket costs. Instead, these rebates, which PBMs get during their negotiations with drug manufacturers, are being used to inflate PBMs’ already massive profits.

Patients need our lawmakers in Washington to take the threat PBMs pose more seriously. Congress must pass PBM reform that limits PBMs’ control over patients and helps ensure that more of us can benefit from the rebates and savings currently being used to boost PBM profits. Hopefully, Senator Cassidy, Senator Kennedy, and Leader Scalise can help ensure that happens this year.

Caleb Seals 

Governor Jeff Landry Announces Major Win for Independent Pharmacies

Will give pharmacies more options and create improved access to life saving medications 

Baton Rouge, LA–Today, Governor Jeff Landry announced the approval of an emergency contract that will improve reimbursement rates for independent pharmacists and will give Louisianans better access to prescription medications. Independent pharmacies will have the choice to be reimbursed under the old terms of the contract or they can be reimbursed using the National Average Drug Acquisition Cost (NADAC) model. 

“Under this emergency contract, pharmacists will have a choice.  Independent pharmacies will have the opportunity to remain in their current contracting arrangement or opt in to the newly created arrangement available only to independent pharmacies. No longer will our local pharmacies continue to lose money as they try to serve their community. This is a major win for local pharmacies and the people of Louisiana,” said Governor Jeff Landry. 

Background:

Under a previous contract negotiated under the former governor (that did not receive Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget approval), many independents could no longer service Office of Group Benefits (OGB) members because they were losing money to fill prescriptions.  This created pharmacy deserts in some of the rural areas of the state, and it impacted patient choice. Since January, at the direction of Governor Landry, the administration including Heath Williams, the newly appointed Office of Group Benefits CEO, have been working on innovative solutions that will help Louisianans have better access to prescription medications while also aiding struggling hometown independent pharmacies across the state.

The Conservative Case for KOSA

Photo source: CNN

In a time where technology permeates every facet of our lives, ensuring the safety of our children online is paramount. The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) stands as a critical legislative effort to protect our youth from the dangers lurking on the internet. 

Just this past week, Moon Griffon did an interview highlighting the importance of this bill. He spoke with Brandon Guffey, a state representative from South Carolina, about the bill and how the issue affected him personally. 

Guffey has become a prominent advocate for the Kids Online Safety Act following the tragic suicide of his 17-year-old son, Gavin. In July 2022, Gavin Guffey became a victim of sexual extortion after being manipulated by an online scammer on Instagram. This scam led to Gavin's untimely death, which has deeply impacted his family and driven his father to take action against Big Tech.

He joined Moon Griffon last week to speak about his story and how KOSA could save children like his son Gavin.  

Listen to Moon’s Interview Here: 

Other conservatives from across the country has stood up and supported KOSA as well!

Kellyanne Conway, a strong conservative advisor for President Trump said of the bill: "Increasingly, children are vulnerable to online distortion and exploitation due to social media use. Social media can be a force for good, but also lurking there are traffickers, drug dealers, and other bad actors." 

Mercedes Schlapp echoes this sentiment, stressing the accountability of Big Tech: "Big Tech must be held accountable for refusing to protect children from online harms. It’s past time for social media platforms to prioritize the safety of children by adding stronger privacy settings and preventing the promotion of harmful content to minors."

The Conservative Case for KOSA

1. Protection from Exploitation and Abuse: The internet, while a tool for education and connectivity, has become a breeding ground for predators. KOSA aims to curb the exploitation of minors by implementing stringent privacy settings and giving parents more control over their children's online activities. As Morgan Ortagus, a former State Department spokesperson, states, "By requiring social media platforms to enable strong private settings by default, our minors will be better defended against the exploitation attempts visible every day on these platforms."

2. Safeguarding Mental Health: The mental health crisis among teenagers, exacerbated by social media, is a pressing concern. Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti points out, "Algorithmic social media platforms have devastated teen mental health." KOSA addresses this issue by ensuring platforms prioritize the mental well-being of young users.

3. Bipartisan Support Reflects Urgency: Former Governor Mike Huckabee notes, "Protecting America’s children is not a political issue, but a public safety concern that transcends the normal horizontal political spectrum of left/right." The bipartisan nature of KOSA underscores its importance and the universal agreement on the need for such protections.

4. Holding Big Tech Accountable: Harmeet Dhillon, a staunch advocate against Big Tech’s overreach, asserts, "The Kids Online Safety Act will put rules into place to prevent these platforms from exploiting vulnerable kids and will give families a remedy against the CEOs who offer false apologies but enable these practices for profit and ideological reasons." KOSA ensures that Big Tech companies are no longer immune to the consequences of their inaction.

KOSA represents more than just a legislative act; it embodies a commitment to pro-family and pro-America values. The Kids Online Safety Act is a crucial step in safeguarding our children online. . 

Louisiana has a unique opportunity with the amount of power concentrated in Washington DC that hails from the bayou. It’s time for our leaders in Washington to step up and support the Kids Online Safety Act now!

Kennedy on Fox News: It's the 4th anniversary of the biggest lie the Biden-Harris administration ever told. It's only gotten worse.

“President Biden and Vice President Harris argue that they are just trying to protect democracy. Yet they have done all they can to prevent citizens from hearing the truth about their administration. That itself is anti-democratic. And it is immoral.” 

MADISONVILLE, La. – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) penned this op-ed for Fox News detailing how the Biden-Harris administration has lied to the American people in the four years since Hunter Biden’s laptop first surfaced. Kennedy argued that the Biden-Harris administration’s continued effort to censor the American people is anti-democratic and immoral. 

Key excerpts of the op-ed are below:

“President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have a casual relationship with the truth. They told us that they aren’t trying to ban gas stoves, that our president’s abilities aren’t in decline, and that the border isn’t open. They called these conspiracy theories. It appears we are going to have to get some new conspiracy theories because all the old ones turned out to be true. 

“Monday marks the fourth anniversary of the biggest lie the Biden-Harris administration told: that Mr. Hunter Biden’s laptop was not real.”

. . .

“It’s three weeks until the election. While some seem to have learned, the Biden-Harris administration has only doubled down.”

. . .

“Democracy only works when we can say what we believe. You are not free if you cannot say what you think. And no one can cast an informed vote when those in power censor relevant information. The American people know that the best way to correct misinformation is with more and better information, not censorship.

“President Biden and Vice President Harris argue that they are just trying to protect democracy. Yet they have done all they can to prevent citizens from hearing the truth about their administration. That itself is anti-democratic. And it is immoral.” 

Read Kennedy’s full op-ed here. 

Op-ed: Senator Bill Cassidy’s Leadership in Carbon Capture is a Game-Changer for Louisiana’s Economy

Louisiana is on the verge of a transformative economic boom, thanks to the leadership of U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy. Carbon capture, a critical component of our future energy infrastructure, is not just a tool for environmental protection—it is also poised to attract billions of dollars in new industrial investments to the state. With over $20 billion in announced carbon capture projects in Louisiana, the state stands to gain approximately $90 million in permanent jobs and $80 million in local tax revenue. Sen. Cassidy’s efforts have positioned Louisiana as a leader in the low-carbon economy, creating a win-win scenario for both the environment and economic development.

Carbon capture is an essential part of decarbonizing industries, and Louisiana is uniquely situated to take advantage of this opportunity. The state's geography, with its extensive industrial base and geology suitable for carbon sequestration, makes it a natural hub for this technology. As industries and governments worldwide look for ways to reduce carbon emissions, Louisiana is ready to serve as a model for the future. 

Sen. Cassidy has been instrumental in bringing federal resources to the state, securing significant funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). This funding has enabled several major carbon capture projects to move forward. For example, the Direct Air Capture (DAC) hub, known as Project Cypress, located in Southwest Louisiana, will receive up to $603 million in federal funding. This project alone is expected to create 2,300 jobs and remove one million metric tons of CO2 annually from the atmosphere​.

In addition to Project Cypress, Louisiana is home to numerous other carbon capture projects, such as the $46.8 million in grants for CO2 storage initiatives in the Louisiana Chemical Corridor and offshore storage hubs near Monkey Island​. These projects are not only creating immediate jobs but also laying the foundation for a long-term economic boom as companies look to invest in cleaner, more sustainable technologies.

His leadership has also fostered collaboration with academic institutions like Louisiana State University (LSU), ensuring that the state remains at the forefront of energy innovation. The National Science Foundation (NSF) is partnering with LSU and several other leading state universities, including the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, McNeese State University, and Southern University, on a groundbreaking initiative to explore the use of carbon capture technologies and hydrogen as alternative fuels. 

This research provides $160 million in critical funding to develop next-generation, low-carbon technologies. Recently, FUEL connected Louisiana industry to NewLab entrepreneurs throughout the country in an effort to spur innovation and drive business growth through carbon capture. FUEL’s goals extend beyond technology and research. A portion of the grant funding will go to supporting job creation through workforce development programs that can reach all corners of our state.

The importance of carbon capture for Louisiana’s economy cannot be overstated. Not only are these projects creating thousands of good-paying jobs, but they are also generating innovation, new business ventures, and significant ripple effects throughout the state economy. As the global economy shifts towards low-carbon markets, industries that rely on carbon capture will continue to grow, bringing even more investment and opportunities to the state—including increasing demand for low-carbon steel, sustainable, lightweight plastics, and power for data centers. 

Louisiana’s future as an energy leader is bright, and much of that success can be attributed to Sen. Cassidy’s efforts. His work to secure federal funding and promote carbon capture technology has set Louisiana on a path to economic growth, ensuring we remain relevant in the increasingly global energy market. Thanks to Sen. Cassidy’s vision and leadership, Louisiana is poised to lead the way in the energy transition, creating a cleaner, more prosperous future for all.

Speaker Johnson calls federal response to Helene ‘a massive failure’

Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) called the federal response to Hurricane Helene a “massive failure” and pointed to the hundreds of people still missing.

“At the federal level, this has been a massive failure. And you can just ask the people there on the ground. I have been there. I was in Georgia. I was in Florida, where Hurricane Helene made landfall, there on the coast. And then we’ll be going to the hardest hit parts of North Carolina on Wednesday of this week,” Johnson told Shannon Bream on “Fox News Sunday.”

Johnson said the federal government had advance notice of the hurricane and should have been better equipped to respond.

Read more: Speaker Johnson calls federal response to Helene ‘a massive failure’

Governors' Coalition for Energy Choice Expands with Two New Members

Baton Rouge, LA — The Governor’s Coalition for Energy Choice, spearheaded by Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry and New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu to address high energy costs and mitigate energy cost inflation across the United States, is pleased to welcome Governor Tate Reeves of Mississippi and Governor Kay Ivey of Alabama to the coalition, further strengthening its reach and impact. The coalition now includes twelve governors from the following states: Louisiana, New Hampshire, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Indiana, Wyoming, Arkansas, South Dakota, Oklahoma, and Virginia.

The Governors' Coalition for Energy Choice will assist state leaders in developing smart energy policies to benefit working families, businesses, and communities.

The coalition's goals include:

1. Guaranteeing continued energy choice—that resources of all types remain available to consumers

2. Reducing permitting and other regulatory barriers

3. Restricting expensive energy mandates

4. Focusing on the affordability and reliability of energy infrastructure

5. Promoting positive management of energy resources and the environment

“Affordable energy is too important to the future of our country to accept anything less than full-on American energy independence,” said Gov. Tate Reeves. "I look forward to collaborating with fellow governors to ensure Mississippians, and all Americans can enjoy the freedom to choose their energy now and in the future.”

“Governors Landry and Sununu are leading an important bipartisan effort to help ensure energy policies put families and consumers over politics, and I am glad to join their coalition,” said Gov. Kay Ivey.

"We're thrilled to welcome Governor Reeves and Governor Ivey to our coalition," said Gov. Jeff Landry. "Their expertise and commitment to affordable, reliable energy will be invaluable as we work together to shape energy policies that benefit all Americans."

Governor Landry Honors Hurricane Francine Heroes

Baton Rouge, LA—Today, Governor Landry honored several Louisiana citizens who went above and beyond to serve their communities during Hurricane Francine. Each of the hurricane heroes received a commendation recognizing their heroic work during the storm. Those in attendance were Miles Crawford-a nurse at University Medical Center, Hunter Hughes and Zachary Hooge from Watson, and the Fisher Middle High School Football team from Lafitte, La.  

“In the worst of times here in Louisiana, we always see communities come together to support each other. These folks today represent the best of Louisiana, and I am honored to officially recognize them for their actions,” said Governor Jeff Landry. 

Miles Crawford rescued a man trapped inside his vehicle by floodwaters in New Orleans.

Hunter Hughes and Zachary Hooge, two 16-year-olds from Watson, LA helped their community by fixing generators before Hurricane Francine made landfall.

The Fisher Middle High School Football team in Lafitte helped deploy over 60,000 sandbags over the course of two days to protect homes and businesses from rising water.

HEALTH FREEDOME COALITION: Public Comment Requested as Louisiana's Select Committee on Homeland Security Convenes to Review the State's Response to COVID-19

Next week begins the first in a series of legislative hearings to review Louisiana’s response to COVID-19. Following the passage of State Representative Chuck Owen’s HR133, a resolution requesting the hearings, the House Select Committee on Homeland Security will convene on September 25 and 26 with discussions focused on the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) and the state’s medical licensing boards. The agendas for Wednesday, September 25th and Thursday, September 26th include testimony from the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP), the Louisiana Department of Health, the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners, the Louisiana State Board of Nursing, the Louisiana Hospital Association, and the Louisiana Nursing Home Association.

The government’s response to covid was an attack on our civil liberties which subsequently threatened the health, economy, and security of our state. As such, the House Select Committe on Homeland Security has been assigned the task of evaluating the state’s response to covid and offering effective policy changes so that public health is never again used as a means of undermining our state’s security. Chairman Jay Gallé and Vice Chair Chuck Owen along with Representatives Beryl Amedée, Josh Carlson, Raymond Crews, Kathy Edmonston, Peter Egan, Brett Geymann, Danny McCormick, and Phillip Tarver have been entrusted to ask tough questions to ensure that harmful policies are addressed. Many of these legislators fought covid overeach for years while others stepped into public office because of the government’s response to covid.

These hearings are an opportunity to examine all aspects of covid policies implemented by LDH in regard to public health including isolating loved ones in long-term care, social distancing, universal masking recommendations, and vaccine mandates.

The public, including healthcare workers and those affected by policies implemented in healthcare settings like hospitals and long-term care facilities, are invited to comment publicly or submit written testimony.

Future hearings will review covid policies in education and executive orders from the governor’s office.

Statements may be filed with the House Select Committee on Homeland Security via e-mail at hschs@legis.la.gov.

Kennedy commends Louisianians for their strength during Hurricane Francine: ‘My people are tough as a pine knot’

“My people are tough as a pine knot, but they're also compassionate—and we made it through.”

WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) spoke on the Senate floor to praise the people of Louisiana for their perseverance during Hurricane Francine. Kennedy also explained what types of federal aid Louisiana will receive to help facilitate cleanup efforts in the state.

Key remarks from Kennedy include:

“I am sorry to report that last week my people in Louisiana were hit by yet another hurricane: Hurricane Francine. It was a Category 2. It was right on the line between a Category 1 and a Category 2. We had winds of 100 miles an hour. We had nine to 10 inches of rain. We had a vicious storm surge.

“My people did what they always do: They got ready for it, they reacted to the storm with grace and with pressure. My people filled sandbags, and we checked on our neighbors and we listened to our local officials. We said prayers for our first responders. My people are tough as a pine knot, but they're also compassionate—and we made it through.

“Some have said, ‘Well, compared to past hurricanes, Francine was not as bad as some in the past.’ And that's true. It could always be worse, but that is cold comfort for the thousands of Louisianians who sustained damage from that storm surge and those ferocious winds and that rain.

“And I want to assure my people that, as we have in the past, we will persevere, and we will make it through. I have never, in my years in the Senate, voted against providing relief for any of our sister states and my fellow senators who have asked for it, who have been the victim of a natural disaster—and I never will.

“That's the first role of government is to protect people and property. And I will never vote against aid for one of our sister states that, through no fault of its own, is struck by nature. I say that because I will be asking the American people to help Louisiana one more time. We won't ask for a penny more than we need. The help that I will seek will be in the form of personal assistance and housing, for example, infrastructure assistance and mitigation grants.

“I want to thank President Biden, Governor Landry, with whom I toured by helicopter the damage last week. Governor Landry asked for a disaster declaration for the president, and President Biden was quick to agree. I want to thank him for that.”

Watch Kennedy’s full speech here. 

Why the Kids Online Safety Act Must Pass Now

Today the House Committee on Energy and Commerce held a hearing on the Kids Online Safety Act. After successfully passing through committee. it's time to advance this bill through the full House of Representatives.

The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) is one of the most important pieces of legislation in over two decades aimed at protecting children from online harms. The last time Congress passed a law to safeguard kids online was in 1998, before social media and smartphones became integral to daily life. Today, social media platforms, gaming sites, and other online environments expose children to a wide range of risks, including bullying, addiction, sexual exploitation, and harmful content. KOSA, which recently passed the Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support, seeks to update regulations to address these modern dangers.

The act is supported by a broad coalition of parents’ groups, children's advocacy organizations, and tech companies like Microsoft, X (formerly Twitter), and Snap. These groups argue that KOSA is a crucial first step in holding tech companies accountable for the harm their platforms can cause. By creating a “duty of care,” the legislation would require online platforms to take reasonable steps to prevent harm to minors. This includes preventing exposure to dangerous content, such as the promotion of suicide, eating disorders, substance abuse, and sexual exploitation. 

The bill also mandates that social media platforms offer minors the option to protect their information, disable addictive product features, and opt out of algorithmic recommendations. It goes further to limit users' ability to communicate with minors and restrict platform features designed to increase engagement, such as autoplay and rewards systems. This “safety by default” approach ensures that platforms must prioritize the well-being of young users by defaulting to the most secure settings.

Despite the overwhelming support, KOSA faces some opposition. Critics, particularly from groups concerned with free speech, have raised concerns about potential violations of the First Amendment. They worry that the bill might be used to restrict access to vital information on topics such as LGBTQ+ issues or reproductive rights. However, the bill has been revised to address many of these concerns, and several prominent LGBTQ+ groups have since dropped their opposition.

Children's exposure to the internet is higher than ever, with kids aged 8 to 12 spending an average of five hours per day on screens, and teenagers clocking in over eight hours. Studies show a significant increase in mental health issues among youth, with alarming rates of depression, bullying, and suicidal thoughts linked to social media use. In this environment, the need for KOSA is urgent. As Julianna Arnold, a parent whose daughter tragically died after purchasing tainted drugs via Instagram, stated, "Every other industry has been regulated to keep our children safe. Why not this one?"

Parents and policymakers alike recognize that Big Tech has repeatedly failed to regulate itself when it comes to protecting children. By enforcing independent audits and research into how platforms affect the mental health and well-being of young users, KOSA would create transparency and accountability. The Federal Trade Commission would oversee much of this enforcement, while state attorneys general would play a role in ensuring compliance with specific provisions of the act.

KOSA's passage would mark the first major legislative reform to regulate the tech industry since the 1990s. Groups like the American Academy of Pediatrics, Common Sense Media, the NAACP, and ParentsSOS, a group of parents who have lost children due to social media harms, have championed the bill's passage. This broad and growing coalition reflects how deeply concerned Americans are about the unchecked influence of tech platforms on their children.

The bipartisan support for KOSA reflects its universal importance. U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) authored the bill, garnering backing from conservatives like Richard Grenell and Newt Gingrich, as well as progressive advocates for child safety. “Big Tech has abused conservatives for far too long,” said Grenell, adding that KOSA is a necessary tool to protect children from exploitation by drug cartels, sex predators, and human traffickers.

The Kids Online Safety Act passed through the Energy and Commerce Committee after representatives on both sides of the aisle expressed enthusiastic support. 

As the bill moves toward the House of Representatives, it is vital that our leaders, including House Majority Leader Steve Scalise and Speaker Mike Johnson, push for its swift passage. Protecting children should not be a partisan issue, and KOSA is an opportunity to take meaningful action against the exploitation of our most vulnerable population.

To Leader Scalise and Speaker Johnson: it is time to act. KOSA represents a rare moment of bipartisan agreement in Congress and an urgent call to safeguard our children from the harms of unchecked digital platforms. Please ensure that this critical bill passes the House and reaches the President's desk for signature. Our children's safety online cannot wait another 25 years.

Senate passes Kennedy-backed bill to make Biden-Harris admin’s DHS disclose catch-and-release data

“Louisianians and all Americans deserve total transparency about who is in their communities. For that reason, the House should bring this bill to the president’s desk quickly.”

WASHINGTON – The Senate unanimously passed the Southern Border Transparency Act, which Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, helped introduce.

The bill, which Sens. John Cornyn (R-Texas), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) led, would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to issue reports detailing how it is handling illegal aliens seeking entry along the southern border. 

“Vice President Harris was tasked with addressing immigration, and under her and Pres. Biden’s watch, millions of illegal immigrants have been released into our country by DHS. Louisianians and all Americans deserve total transparency about who is in their communities. For that reason, the House should bring this bill to the president’s desk quickly,” said Kennedy.

The Biden-Harris administration uses tools such as parole to drive down apprehensions at the U.S.-Mexico border and avoid removing foreign nationals who enter the country illegally.  

“The Biden-Harris administration has gone to great lengths to hide the ball when it comes to levels of illegal immigration, but the American people deserve to know exactly how many migrants are being released into the country and exactly on what terms. This is the most basic of transparency measures—just the facts, that’s all we’re looking for,” said Cornyn.

The bill would require the DHS to report on the: 

• Number of migrants paroled at each port of entry (POE), broken down by nationality and demographics.

• Number of migrants paroled in each Border Patrol sector, broken down by nationality and demographics.

• Number of migrants apprehended at each POE.

• Number of migrants apprehended in each Border Patrol sector.

• Number of petitions for parole received and granted by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services and the total number of aliens paroled into the U.S., broken down by nationality and demographics.

Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), John Hawley (R-Mo.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) also cosponsored the legislation.

Bill text of the Southern Border Transparency Act is available here.

Governors Landry & Sununu Announce the Governors' Coalition for Energy Choice

BATON ROUGE, LA – Addressing one of the fastest-growing strains on family finances, Governor Jeff Landry (LA) and Governor Chris Sununu (NH) have formed a new organization to help Americans tackle the high costs of energy and accelerating energy cost inflation. The Governors' Coalition for Energy Choice will help state leaders formulate smart energy policies that will benefit working families, businesses, and our communities. Governors Landry and Sununu are joined by eight of their colleagues: Governor Kemp (GA), Governor Lee (TN), Governor Holcomb (IN), Governor Gordon (WY), Governor Huckabee Sanders (AR), Governor Noem (SD), Governor Stitt (OK), Governor Youngkin (VA).

“Everyone wants reliable energy, whether that be electricity, heating and cooling, and transportation. One thing is clear—states that enhance energy choice also enjoy lower energy costs, increase reliability, and attract businesses and employment opportunities,” Gov. Landry said. “As Governor of a major energy producing state, I know that it is important to sustain those trends for the benefit of residents and businesses. I look forward to working with my fellow governors in the Governors’ Coalition for Energy Choice.”

“High energy costs driven by government regulation are crushing middle income families already burdened by inflation. These families deserve affordable and reliable energy,” Gov. Sununu said. “Here in New Hampshire, we have kept energy prices in line by embracing fuel choice and minimizing expensive mandates.  I am excited to take what we have learned to help other states across the country.”

The two Governors have reached out to over 24 fellow Governors total across the country to invite them to join this effort. The goals of the organization are to ensure continued energy choice, minimize permitting and other regulatory barriers, limit expensive energy mandates, focus on affordability and reliability of energy infrastructure, and coordinate to positively manage energy resources and the environment.

At a time when every family in America is feeling the impacts of inflation, it is imperative for state leaders to ensure energy policies are focused on affordability, reliability, and good stewardship. That is how the best-performing states foster economic opportunity and improve the lives of their citizens. The Governors’ Coalition for Energy Choice will actively work with states to ensure energy policies are done right.