On August 12, we welcomed Senators Patrick McMath, Beth Mizell, Bob Owen and Dr. Bill Wheat, and Representatives Stephanie Berault, Kim Carver, Peter Egan, Brian Glorioso and Mark Wright as speakers for our After the Gavel: What Passed. What’s Pending. What Matters. luncheon. Members of the Northshore Legislative Delegation shared their perspectives on the 2026 legislative session and what’s ahead for Louisiana.
The discussion highlighted several issues with direct implications for St. Tammany and Louisiana’s business community:
- Economic growth and workforce: Legislators pointed to the significant investment and job creation taking place across Louisiana and the need to prepare workers to fill those positions. New legislation is expanding career exposure for students, strengthening workforce programs and helping employers upskill workers for specific jobs.
- Healthcare: The session brought changes involving telehealth for weight management, emerging treatments, provider reimbursement, perinatal bereavement care and access to healthcare services. Legislators emphasized the importance of improving health outcomes and Louisiana’s ability to attract and retain healthcare providers.
- Public safety and vulnerable residents: Legislation addressed high-speed pursuit safety for law enforcement, impaired drivers, child trafficking and sexual abuse, senior financial exploitation, and support for young people aging out of foster care.
- Investment in St. Tammany: The delegation highlighted significant state funding approved for the parish for public safety, infrastructure, education, healthcare, nonprofit organizations and other local priorities. Continued attention to Interstate 12 and other infrastructure needs will be critical as the Northshore grows.
- Fiscal responsibility: Legislators discussed efforts to reduce fraud, waste and inefficiency, maintain a responsible state budget and improve government operations while directing resources toward workforce, education, infrastructure and debt reduction.
- What’s next: Insurance remains a significant concern for Louisiana businesses and families, while workforce shortages, infrastructure and education will require continued attention. Legislators also emphasized that several constitutional amendments will require voters to determine whether additional reforms move forward.
Thank you to our Northshore delegation for participating in this important conversation and sharing their perspectives on the 2026 legislative session. We also thank our President-Level Investors, sponsors of the luncheon, and FOX8, our media sponsor, for helping make this important conversation possible.