The Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops recently released the Principles and Priorities for the 2026 Legislative Session:
Life & Dignity of the Human Person
- Protect human life from conception to natural death.
- Oppose abortion, euthanasia, cloning, embryonic research, IVF, and the death penalty.
- Strengthen protections for victims and fight human trafficking.
- Improve legal processes and reporting of abortion complications.
- Promote restorative approaches to infertility.
Family, Community & Participation
- Strengthen Catholic education and support parental choice.
- Protect religious school autonomy; expand family tax credits and scholarships.
- Support fatherhood initiatives, foster care, and adoption improvements.
- Expand early childhood development and mental health access.
- Address poverty, homelessness, and affordable housing needs.
Solidarity, Restorative Justice & Immigration
- Promote justice, peace, and unity within the human family.
- Support rehabilitation for justice‑involved youth.
- Reform non‑unanimous jury convictions and expand re‑entry support.
- Uphold dignity and respect for migrants and immigrant families.
Dignity of Work & Rights of Workers
- Improve workforce programs and prevent the “benefits cliff.”
- Support increasing the minimum wage for low‑income families.
Care for God’s Creation
- Improve air and water quality in underserved communities.
- Study environmental risks affecting maternal and unborn health.
- Expand the Fortified Roof program.
- Support cleanup of orphan wells and lead pipes.
- Ensure community involvement in carbon‑capture and data center projects.
