Louisiana Moving to Phase 3, Statement from CEO

Today, Governor John Bel Edwards announced Louisiana will begin moving into Phase 3 of the state’s economic restrictions on Friday. Pelican Institute CEO Daniel Erspamer released the following statement in response to this decision:

“Gov. Edwards’ announcement today is a step in the right direction to get Louisiana working. After months of urging Louisiana leaders to continue moving forward to reopen our state’s economy, the Pelican Institute is encouraged to see them finally prioritizing the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of Louisianans and their families. This has dragged on for far too long, and the damage done during this time will be extremely difficult to reverse.

We’re currently facing two serious crises that must be addressed with equal effort and urgency – the health threat posed by COVID-19 and the destruction of livelihoods shutdown mandates leave in their wake. From there, of course, many tasks remain. Among them are policy changes necessary to provide proper checks and balances to Louisiana state government and to ensure every citizen’s rights and liberties are protected the next time we face a public health crisis.”

###