Louisiana House Bill HB244

Louisiana 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/26
• Refer: 2/20/26
• Refer: 3/9/26
• Refer: 4/1/26
• Refer: 4/7/26
• Report Pass: 4/13/26
• Engrossed: 4/21/26
• Refer: 4/22/26

Caption

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for the election of constitutional convention delegates and vote requirements necessary for the adoption of a new constitution (RR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

Impact

By amending the existing provisions of the Louisiana Constitution, HB 244 seeks to streamline the process for revising the state's constitution. The current process allows for a broader and potentially less controlled method of calling and conducting constitutional conventions. The proposed changes would ensure that the conventions operate with a clear framework, emphasizing accountability through elected delegates. The structural changes could result in a more representative delegate assembly that better reflects the diverse interests of the state's population, which may positively influence the legitimacy of future amendments to state governance and law.

Summary

House Bill 244 proposes a constitutional amendment related to the constitutional convention process in Louisiana. It aims to establish that delegates to a constitutional convention will be elected from each legislative district, including both senatorial and representative districts. The amendment stipulates that any proposal made during the convention must be approved by a two-thirds majority of the delegates before it is submitted to the electorate for ratification. The bill sets forth specific conditions for the ratification process, requiring approval from a majority of voters and a minimum of three-fourths of the parishes. This proposal is set to be voted on in the statewide election scheduled for November 3, 2026.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 244 appears to be supportive among various legislative members who value the need for structural revisions to the constitutional amendment process. Proponents argue that such changes will enhance democratic representation and accountability in the amendment process, thereby encouraging citizen participation in governance. However, there are concerns among critics regarding the thresholds for delegate approval and parish ratification, which could make the process significantly more challenging and may dilute the influence of smaller parishes in statewide decisions.

Contention

Key points of contention within the discussions around HB 244 include the implications of the two-thirds requirement for delegate agreement and the necessity for ratification across a substantial number of parishes. Critics argue that these conditions could disproportionately favor larger urban areas over rural regions, potentially limiting the effectiveness of the proposed constitutional revisions if smaller communities feel their voices are diminished. The bill's supporters counter that this amendment ensures a thorough and thoughtful review process that reflects a broader consensus among the electorate.