Sen. Thomas Pressly

Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution formally commends Lafayette resident Emile Myers for his annual "Emile's Hot Cocoa Fundraiser." The bill recognizes how Myers started a neighborhood hot cocoa stand at age eight in 2019, which has grown into a major community event raising over $100,000 for various local nonprofits. It highlights the fundraiser's support for organizations like the Boys & Girls Club and the American Cancer Society, as well as its role in mentoring the next generation of young philanthropists. This measure serves as an official acknowledgment of Myers' leadership and the positive impact of his youth-led charitable work.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a concurrent resolution expressing the Louisiana Legislature's condolences to the family of Jerry O. Arledge, a former high school football coach from West Monroe. The resolution formally acknowledges Arledge's contributions to high school athletics, noting his coaching career that included leading West Monroe High School to multiple championships and compiling a 104-22-1 record. It also records his honors from the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame in 2021 and directs a copy of the resolution to be sent to his wife, Sally Lytton Arledge.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a concurrent resolution that formally commends Louis S. Reine for his retirement as president of the Louisiana AFL-CIO. It recognizes his nearly three decades of service to the labor organization, including his work as legislative assistant, director of political activities, and secretary-treasurer. The resolution highlights his extensive involvement in state boards, commissions, and community organizations, as well as his long history as a union member and family man. This document serves as an official acknowledgment of his contributions to workers and the state rather than creating new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Louisiana law to manage the Small Business Innovation Retention Fund, which provides financial assistance to local businesses that have won competitive federal SBIR or STTR grants. It directs the Department of Economic Development to administer the fund and requires all state and federal money designated for this purpose to be deposited into it. The legislation also outlines the terms and conditions for issuing these grants to eligible small businesses.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes and modifies the Louisiana Early Childhood Education Fund to support early learning programs. It requires the state to deposit at least $30 million annually into the fund starting in 2027, with additional contributions from grants and donations. The money can only be used for matching grants to local entities that expand quality early childhood care slots for families receiving child care assistance, provided the local entities contribute equal non-state and non-federal funding. The bill also directs unspent state education funds to be transferred to this fund at the end of each fiscal year, with exceptions for funds that have existing liabilities.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a concurrent resolution expressing the Louisiana Legislature's condolences to the family of Dr. Norman C. Francis following his death on February 18, 2026. It honors his life as a civil rights advocate, educator, and community leader who served as president of Xavier University for 47 years and played a key role in rebuilding Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina. The resolution formally acknowledges his legacy and directs a copy of the document to be sent to his family.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution expressing condolences to the family of former Louisiana State Senator Robert W. "Bob" Kostelka, who passed away on January 10, 2026. The resolution formally acknowledges his legacy of public service as a district attorney, judge, and legislator, while also recognizing his contributions to his community and family. It does not create new laws or policy changes but serves as an official statement of respect from the Louisiana Senate. The document will be sent to Kostelka's family as a gesture of appreciation for his life and career.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a commendation resolution that formally recognizes Senate President Cameron Henry, Jr. for being selected as the 2026 Irish Grand Marshal in the 44th Annual Irish-Italian Parade in Metairie, Louisiana. The resolution highlights the parade's history since 1983, its role in celebrating Irish and Italian heritage, and the significance of Henry's appointment alongside Italian Grand Marshal Erik Youngblood. The document notes that the parade attracts large crowds and supports local nonprofits, while also mentioning that the LSU Tiger Marching Band led the procession this year. This measure serves as an official expression of appreciation from the Louisiana Senate for Henry's participation in this community event.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates March 17, 2026, as Profound Autism Day in Louisiana to raise awareness about individuals with profound autism who require lifelong care. The resolution highlights research findings showing that about one in four children with autism have profound autism, often facing unique challenges like minimal language skills and higher rates of medical complications. By recognizing this specific date, the legislature aims to acknowledge the distinct needs of this population and their caregivers, who are frequently excluded from general support programs. The Senate resolution is transmitted to the Profound Autism Alliance to promote understanding and inclusion for these individuals and their families.

Maddy summarySB 311 updates Louisiana's rules for organ and tissue donations after death. It clarifies who can authorize donations (including family members with legal documents), creates new systems for tracking both donation authorizations and refusals via state registries, and defines key terms like "donor registry" to standardize procedures. These changes directly affect donors, hospitals, organ procurement organizations, and medical teams handling donations. The bill modernizes existing law without altering donation policies, focusing on clearer legal processes for families and healthcare providers.