Senate President Page Cortez
The question looms if incoming lawmakers can meet the January 15th deadline to redraw the state’s congressional map to include a second majority-minority district. Outgoing Senate President Page Cortez said it’s best to ask for a deadline extension because it’s not ideal for current lawmakers to meet.
“And there are a few reasons behind that; the Senate and House chambers are being worked on, we have an election coming up, we also have holidays, and you have a governor in office who could ultimately veto any plan we could pass,” said Cortez.
And if Edwards vetoed the maps, because of the limited timeline, Cortez said there would be a veto override session for incoming lawmakers and Governor-elect Landry. Cortez said they’ll have a better idea next week where things stand.
“I think we’re going to wait to see what the federal district judge, Judge (Shelly) Dick, if she were to allow for more days, then we would allow for the next legislature to take it up,” said Cortez.
Cortez said he hasn’t discussed it with Governor Edwards and if he plans to call for a special session before he leaves office. Cortez believes Edwards is waiting to see if Judge Shelly Dick grants an extension or not.
“I think going in before January 15th is all predicated on the judge, the district judge not allowing for any additional time,” said Cortez.
Governor-elect Landry and new lawmakers will be sworn in office one week before the January 15th deadline.
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