New Orleans Rep. Matthew Willard (D)
As Republican Governor Jeff Landry’s special session to focus on crime convenes, the House Democratic Caucus said they too are also committed to addressing crime, yet they were not involved in drafting legislation. New Orleans Representative Matthew Willard said while the governor refers to victims of crime…
“Yet every proposal that his team has put forward is reactive. None of it will have to reduce crime and keep our communities safer,” said Willard.
Williard said the Democratic Caucus, nor the Black Legislative Caucus were allowed any input in the special session. He said several aspects should be considered to adequately address crime.
“We need to talk about mental health, substance use disorders, reentry programs, and eliminating barriers for our men and women coming home from prison so they can successfully reintegrate into society,” said Willard.
Williard said due to the way the special session was called, lawmakers are not addressing the root causes of crime.
“My fear, our fear, is that we will spend time up here and take action that will not lead to safer communities in the state of Louisiana,” said Willard.
The session is scheduled to adjourn on March 6th. The regular session will convene on March 11th.
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