Louisiana Legislative Countdown 4.1.24

As we strut into the fourth week of the regular session, here is where to focus your attention. Lots of irons in the fire so hang tight, we try to keep it brief!

TL;DR: Rep. Boyd’s Right to Contraception Act was delayed in committee last week, so send another email to your rep urging their support. AND if you’re in Baton Rouge, join us in celebration of Planned Parenthood’s 40th anniversary in Louisiana this Thursday, April 4!

Don’t forget to share this form with friends, families, and colleagues who need these updates in their own inboxes.

Rep. Freeman’s proposed Reproductive Freedom Amendment failed to make it out of committee. This comes as little surprise as legislators continue to ignore both the will of their constituents and the urgent need for restored abortion access while our state’s devastating ban jeopardizes pregnant Louisianans’ health and lives. Watch testimony from our Director of Public Affairs.

And while legislators were staunchly unwilling to advance this amendment that would allow Louisianans a say in the matter of their own reproductive health care, the governor continues to push his  plan for a rushed constitutional convention this summer to rewrite the whole thing. Read more here, and stay tuned for related action items.

In brighter news, Rep. Freeman’s HB392 requiring Medicaid coverage of perimenopausal and menopausal care and Rep. Willard’s HB702 requiring Medicaid coverage for doulas both passed out of committee and are headed to the House floor!

Rep. Boyd’s Right to Contraception Act stalled in the House, but we anticipate it back in committee this week. A new week means last week’s emails to legislators are old news. Submit a fresh email to your legislator and follow us on X (formerly Twitter) for live updates!

As we forge ahead, it’s important to remember what we fight for – and what better way to shore up strength for the rest of session than with a party? You’re invited to join us for PPGC’s Baton Rouge Spring Event this Thursday, April 4 from 6-9 p.m. at Chelsea’s Live for an evening of inspiring speakers and live entertainment, camaraderie with like-minded supporters, and celebration of Planned Parenthood’s 40 years of service in Louisiana! Last-chance tickets are available until midnight on Tuesday, so snag yours here today.

It’s so important we’re saying it twice: Use our advocacy form to AGAIN urge your representative to support protected access to birth control in a state where all reproductive health care is under constant attack.