Last week, Louisiana ABC had a wonderful day at the Legislature when it hosted the annual "Day at the Capitol" and Legislative Reception at the City Club on Tuesday, May 13th.
Over 60 members from the Bayou and Pelican Chapters and as far away as Shreveport and Lake Charles came to support our legislative efforts and meet and greet some 25 plus legislators. This was the biggest gathering ever with great camaraderie!
The Wednesday, May 14th, ABC and a coalition of associations, soundly defeated Senate Bills 616 and 654. These bills were organized labor's effort to expand the Louisiana Plumbing Board and control the supply of skilled craftsmen who are building careers in construction.
On behalf of ABC of Louisiana and our members statewide we want to thank Senator Mike Michot and Senator Nick Gautreaux for voting to defer (kill the bills in committee) SB616 and SB654. Their support was unwavering and greatly appreciated.
We would be remiss if we did not acknowledge Senator Ann Duplessis, Chairperson of the Commerce Committee, for the equitable and fair hearing that she provided to those in favor of the bills as well as those opposed to the bills. Equally important to the defeat of this legislation was the coalition that teamed up to lobby against these bills - The Home Builders of Louisiana, The Louisiana Heat Pump Association, and Louisiana Association of Business and Industry.
Thanks to all of you who sent a Voter Voice, email, or fax message on the issues. It was your participation and grassroots action that enabled Tim Johnson and Don Allison of Advantous Consulting to engineer this victory with our coalition partners.
Please take a few minutes to send Senator Michot and Senator Gautreaux a well deserved thank you for their vote and Senator Duplessis a thank you for her leadership. Also, the next time you see Jim Patterson with LABI, give him a pat on the back as well!
Senator Ann Duplessis Senator Nick Gautreaux Senator Mike Michot
6600 Plaza Dr. Suite 211A 209 E. St. Victor St. P.O. Box 80372
New Orleans, LA 70127 Abbeville, LA 70510 Lafayette, LA 70598-0372
duplessisa@legis.state.la.us gautreaun@legis.state.la.us lasen23@legis.state.la.us
On a separate note, Rachel Farmer has left ABC Louisiana to join Governor Jindal’s office. Until her replacement is found, Tim Johnson of Advantous Consulting, LLC will be our contact on PAC issues.