Today, the Louisiana State Legislature voted to pause the current legislative session over the continued and rapidly moving fallout from the worldwide spread of COVID-19. The Pelican Institute understands the legislature’s decision to proceed cautiously and appreciates the diligent work by national, state, and local leaders to limit the continued spread of the virus.

Uncertain times like this underscore the importance of the fundamental principles our country is based on – freedom and liberty. The Pelican Institute team remains committed to advancing these principles and working every day to see them upheld. We are also hopeful that new innovations and creative problem-solving approaches will emerge out of this great challenge.

When the legislature reconvenes, the Pelican Institute will resume its work to advance solutions that will foster the return of jobs and opportunity to Louisiana and kick-start our struggling economy. When the time is right, all Louisianans must come together to ensure these solutions become reality.

We should continue encouraging state leaders to be creative, thoughtful, and determined leaders when considering a vision for turning the state around and revitalizing its struggling economy. We are confident Louisiana lawmakers will resume this important work with urgency upon their eventual return to the Capitol.

In the meantime, we hope you’ll join us in praying for the health and safety of everyone in our state, nation, and world. You can also spend this time seeking opportunities to strengthen and assist civil society organizations who are helping those hardest hit by the crisis. Louisianans are known for their willingness to come together in a crisis and help one another – now is the time to do so once again.

The Pelican Institute will continue sharing updates as the COVID-19 situation develops, and please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can be of any assistance during this challenging time.