legislation Archives

Protecting Cultural and Tribal Heritage

I strongly support federal policies that prioritize the preservation of historic and culturally significant sites, particularly those vital to local Indigenous tribes. Legislation like the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) play crucial roles in ensuring that federally-funded projects account for the historic and cultural importance of these locations. These laws provide tribes, and citizens as a whole, with the opportunity to have input into the decision-making process through Section 106 reviews.

As we implement transformative projects funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, it’s essential that we don’t overlook the cultural and historical significance of the land. The process of evaluating potential impacts on tribal lands and culturally important sites must be thorough, transparent, and, most importantly, respectful. By protecting these sites, we honor the history, culture, and sovereignty of our Indigenous communities.

I pledge to work toward strengthening these review processes, ensuring they are fully supported and funded, so that the voices of our tribal nations are heard and their heritage is preserved for future generations. Federal planning should never sacrifice cultural integrity for development, and I will continue to push for policies that protect these invaluable resources.

Reauthorizing the Farm Bill

The Farm Bill is an essential piece of legislation that governs a wide array of agricultural, food, and rural development policies across the United States. It is not just a bill for farmers, but one that touches nearly every aspect of American life, from ensuring food security to supporting rural economies. I strongly support the reauthorization of the Farm Bill, with an emphasis on strengthening its provisions to support small and family-owned farms, improve nutrition programs, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

This legislation is a vital tool for ensuring the prosperity of our farmers, the health of our citizens, and the strength of our rural communities. As your representative, I would be committed to advocating for a Farm Bill that not only reauthorizes critical programs but also makes significant strides in addressing the challenges facing our agricultural sector. By supporting small farms, improving food security, and promoting sustainable agriculture, we can build a more resilient and equitable future for Louisiana and the entire nation.

Strengthening the ADA and Enhancing Accessibility

Ensuring that all Americans, regardless of ability, have access to public spaces, services, and opportunities is a fundamental aspect of a just and inclusive society. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has been a critical tool in advancing the rights of people with disabilities, but more must be done to strengthen its provisions and ensure that every community is fully accessible.

This is what I’d like to do in Congress to strengthen the ADA and enhance accessibility across our nation:

Strengthening ADA Compliance: I advocate for updates to the ADA that address modern accessibility needs and close loopholes that allow for non-compliance. This includes expanding the scope of ADA protections to cover emerging technologies and ensuring that digital spaces are as accessible as physical ones.
Increased Funding for Local Governments: To support local governments in their efforts to comply with ADA requirements, I propose significantly increasing federal funding dedicated to accessibility improvements. These funds would help cities and towns retrofit public buildings, sidewalks, transportation systems, and other infrastructure to meet ADA standards.
Support for Home Accessibility: Accessibility should begin at home. I propose creating grant programs to help individuals with disabilities make necessary modifications to their homes, such as installing ramps, widening doorways, and adding accessible bathrooms. These grants would empower people with disabilities to live independently and comfortably in their own homes.
Incentivizing Private Sector Compliance: I support offering tax incentives to businesses that proactively make their facilities and services accessible. This approach not only encourages compliance but also fosters a culture of inclusivity in the private sector.
Community Education and Training: To ensure that accessibility standards are met, I propose funding community education programs that train local officials, architects, and business owners on ADA compliance. Knowledge and understanding are critical to implementing effective accessibility measures.

Accessibility is not just a legal obligation; it’s a moral imperative. By strengthening the ADA and providing the necessary resources to local governments and individuals, we can create a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Supporting the Farm Bill

I strongly support the passage of the Farm Bill, recognizing its critical importance to Louisiana’s agricultural industries. Louisiana’s farmers and ranchers are the backbone of our state’s economy, providing essential crops like sugarcane, rice, soybeans, and more. The Farm Bill not only ensures that these vital industries receive the support they need to thrive, but it also strengthens rural communities, promotes sustainable agricultural practices, and secures the future of food production in our state.

This bill provides the necessary resources for research, innovation, and disaster relief, all of which are crucial for Louisiana, given our unique challenges such as hurricanes and flooding. Additionally, the Farm Bill includes vital nutrition programs that support our most vulnerable residents, ensuring food security for all.

As your representative, I will advocate for a Farm Bill that meets the needs of Louisiana’s agricultural communities, ensuring that our farmers have the tools they need to succeed and that our state’s agricultural legacy continues to grow and prosper.