A major political move in Baton Rouge to impose term limits for Louisiana’s governor has failed to secure enough votes in the Louisiana House. A proposal that aimed to prevent someone from serving as governor for three or more terms fell short by just three votes.
Close Vote on Governor Term Limits
The proposal, introduced by Chalmette Representative Michael Bayham, was a constitutional amendment that required 70 votes to pass. However, it only garnered 67 votes in favor, with 22 votes against and 16 members abstaining from voting.
New Orleans Representative Mandie Landry voiced her support for the proposal, calling it a “good bill.” Under the current state constitution, governors are only allowed to serve two consecutive terms. However, the current laws allow former governors, such as John Bel Edwards or Bobby Jindal, to run for office again in the future if they choose.
Bayham’s Argument for Term Limits
Bayham, who pushed for the constitutional amendment, argued that governors like Edwards and Jindal have already had their chance, and that eight years is enough for future governors. He stated, “We have 4.6 million people in our state. We have plenty of talented people who can serve as executive of Louisiana.”
Bayham also pointed out that when legislative term limits were passed in 1995, 76% of Louisiana voters supported the measure, and he believes a majority of voters would similarly back term limits for the office of governor.
Next Steps for the Proposal
Despite the close vote, no one spoke in opposition during the debate. Bayham has the option to bring the proposal up for another vote in the future to try to secure the necessary 70 votes.
If the measure can pass with a two-thirds majority in both the House and the Senate, Louisiana voters would ultimately have the final say on whether the proposed term limits should be added to the state constitution.
