In this election, Louisiana voters will weigh in on one important constitutional amendment and two proposed changes to city charters. These decisions affect how our state and local government use money and manage resources. We’ll break down each proposal in clear terms so you can head to the polls with a solid understanding of what’s at stake. Whether it’s protecting our coast, adjusting spending, or changing local government, this guide helps you make informed choices. Let’s get into what you’ll see on the ballot!
Statewide Constitutional Amendment
Constitutional Amendment No. 1 – Provides relative to federal proceeds from alternative energy production (Select 1)
Do you support an amendment to require that federal revenues received by the state generated from Outer Continental Shelf alternative or renewable energy production be deposited into the Coastal Protection and Restoration Fund? (Amends Article VII, Section 10.2(E)(1))
YES or NO
Related: The Importance of Voting
Our Explanation
Amendment 1 lets Louisiana decide how to use money from offshore wind and solar energy production. Voters must choose whether to dedicate the funds to coastal protection or allow lawmakers to spend it on other projects.
A Yes Vote:
A yes vote directs future revenue from offshore renewable energy into a fund for coastal protection. The money will pay for projects like building levees and restoring wetlands to protect the coast from erosion, flooding, and hurricanes. Louisiana’s coastal areas are crucial to the economy and safety, so a yes vote ensures they receive funding.
A No Vote:
A no vote allows the money to be used for other state priorities, such as roads, schools, or healthcare. Voting no gives lawmakers more freedom to address needs across the state.
In short, a yes vote sets the money aside for coastal protection, while a no vote allows broader spending for a wider range of state needs.
City Charter Changes
Parishwide HRC Amendment No. 1 of 2 – Amends Art. VI, Sec. 6-201(2) – CC (Select 1)
Shall Article VI of the Home Rule Charter of the City of New Orleans be amended to establish a Housing Trust Fund dedicated exclusively to ensuring the availability of affordable housing within the City, and to require an annual appropriation of at least two percent of the City’s annual general fund to the Housing Trust Fund as provided in Ord. No. 29828, M.C.S.?
YES or NO?
Our Explanation
This proposal would amend the City Charter, requiring at least 2% of the general fund to go to the Housing Trust Fund. The fund aims to address the city’s ongoing housing crisis, which disproportionately impacts African Americans. While this seems like progress, voters must consider the long-term consequences.
A “yes” vote locks in affordable housing funding, ensuring a steady financial stream for future projects. This commitment would help the city address the lack of affordable housing, a worsening issue over time. However, locking in a portion of the budget may cause problems down the road. In tough economic times, the city might need to cut other essential services to meet this funding requirement.
A “no” vote allows the council to maintain yearly flexibility when allocating funds. The council can still prioritize the Housing Trust Fund without a fixed percentage mandate. They could adjust spending based on financial conditions and emerging city needs. Importantly, the council already supports affordable housing, and the fund could still receive money even if the amendment fails.
Voters need to weigh these options carefully. A “yes” vote guarantees long-term housing funds but limits the city’s budget flexibility. A “no” vote keeps the city’s options open but relies on future council decisions to fund affordable housing. The choice is yours.
Parishwide HRC Amendment No. 2 of 2 – Amends Art. II, Sec. 2-202 – CC (Select 1)
Shall Article II, Section 2-202 of the Home Rule Charter of the City of New Orleans be amended to include rights for workers, as described in Ord. No. 29864 M.C.S., among the rights contained in the municipal bill of rights?
YES or NO?
Our Explanation
The Workers Bill of Rights says that everyone deserves equality, fair wages, healthcare, and paid leave. We all believe that. But this is a nonbinding proposition. The government can not force businesses to do more than the minimum. Minimum wage? The city can not increase the minimum wage. Fair wages? Hummm Ok. I’m not against that. Same for healthcare and paid leave. But this is only about symbolism. The language asserts that change is nonbinding.
Nonetheless, the Workers Bill of Rights is up for a vote, and here’s what your choice means:
A Yes Vote:
A yes vote supports the City Council’s symbolic statement in favor of fair wages, healthcare, and paid leave for all workers. Though it doesn’t create enforceable laws, it signals the city’s commitment to worker rights and stands against harmful labor practices.
A No Vote:
A no vote rejects the symbolic bill, leaving no formal declaration by the city in support of these worker protections. It keeps the current policies unchanged.
Your vote helps shape how New Orleans supports its workforce.
Voting is one of the most powerful ways you can shape the future of New Orleans. Every vote counts, whether it’s about funding coastal protection, addressing housing needs, or making changes to how our city supports people who work here. By casting your ballot, you have a direct say in how resources are spent and how decisions are made. This election impacts our community, your family, and your future. Make sure your voice is heard—get out and vote for the change you want to see in New Orleans.
Thank you for the efforts you have put in to making the language used in the amendments and proposals easier to understand.
Very informative..
Thanks so much, I was worried I wouldn’t understand the voting process this passage made the process easier and i feel confident about my choices!