Louisiana Legislature Ends 2025 Session With $51B Budget, Insurance, Education, Ethics Reforms

Louisiana's 2025 legislative session concluded with significant developments including a $51 billion budget emphasizing infrastructure spending and social issues, but not without political friction. Governor Jeff Landry clashed with Senate President Cameron Henry over private school vouchers and prescription drug regulations, with Henry blocking more aggressive reforms favored by Landry. A controversial pharmacy benefits managers bill, which would prevent companies from owning both PBMs and pharmacies, passed the House but died in the Senate, prompting Landry to threaten a special session to revive it, though political analysts doubt this will happen soon. Insurance reform was a key topic, with some relief in auto insurance rates but overall costs expected to rise due to inflation, while increased funding for fortified roofs aims to help homeowners lower premiums. The Legislature also approved transferring the University of New Orleans to the LSU system and authorized a private company to design a new toll road in St. Bernard Parish. The session saw expansion of abortion-related liability laws and new nutrition reforms, reflecting a blend of fiscal and social policy actions amid ongoing political power struggles within the state's GOP leadership.