My Special District Concerns include insurance reform, education reform, job creation, costal restoration and ethics reform.
Insurance Reform
To say the least, the state’s insurance situation is in a terrible crisis and by setting aside $100 million to attract another insurance company to offer the same exorbitant rates does not appear to be the answer. I will introduce legislation that addresses the overarching problem of re-insurance—for this cost is what actually drives up consumer rates. I especially feel that the insurance industry has been, in general, non-responsive to the concerns of everyday citizens of Louisiana. I will work hard to ensure that the $100 million recently allocated by the Louisiana State Legislature to attract new insurance firms will not become a reward for the insurance companies’ mistreatment of our citizens.
Education Reform
Sadly, Louisiana ranks at the bottom of the American educational school system. The poor scores and test results decry the need for reformation. Now, with a three-headed monster in place on the same broken body, the system still ails. Recognizing that there are no easy answers or simple solutions, legislators have to work harder to turn schools from battlefields to nurturing and exciting centers where children enjoy learning. In addressing the issues of the problems with the school system, I will push to provide money to shore up the No Child Left Behind shortfalls as well as to call for an independent audit of the Recovery School District.
Job Creation
It has been said many times, but it is worth repeating that small businesses lie at the heart of a strong economy. Therefore, it is in the State’s best interest to provide resources and incentives for the creation and growth of small businesses through grants and empowerment zones. I will advocate for funding these programs.
Economic Development
There are three ways to tackle this area: one, by addressing it early in the schools through specially designated vocational programs; two, in the aftermath, with rehabilitation programs for prisoners and ex-offenders; and three, to provide incentives to businesses that reinvest in the education of their workforce. For example, those businesses that invest in the training of new employees could be eligible for a 50 percent tax credit not to exceed their tax liability.
Infrastructure and ecosystem restoration
While coastal reconstruction and levee protection are areas under the domain of the federal government, the twin disasters of hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005 (aided by MRGO) has made it clear that the State of Louisiana has to become more involved in playing a lead role in its own protection and self-preservation. Without the replanting of vital indigenous trees in the costal areas, any infrastructure improvements such as roads, bridges and transportation systems will be destroyed and damaged. Following this top priority, I would rank sewer systems and municipal water.
Ethics Reform
The biggest problem that I notice with the present ethics reform is that it allows lawmakers to conduct businesses with industries that they regulate. I would support reform legislation that stipulates that lawmakers, who sit on specific industry committees, or their relatives, cannot receive private contracts and consulting fees from such industries. It is also certainly a good idea for legislators to attend workshops and training on ethics for their continual professional development.
