Louisiana lawmakers propose amendments to improve budget review process

Louisiana lawmakers are proposing two constitutional amendments to improve the state budget process after a chaotic situation last year. Lawmakers received complex budget bills with only an hour to review them, leading to confusion and last-minute approvals. The amendments, set for a vote on December 7, aim to give legislators more time to understand budget changes. Amendment 2 would require a 48-hour waiting period after receiving amendments, while Amendment 3 would allow a six-day extension for voting on appropriations. These proposals follow criticism of the rushed budget process in 2023, where legislators felt blindsided by significant cuts. The amendments passed nearly unanimously in both the House and Senate.