House Bill No. 870, introduced by Representative McMakin, proposes the establishment of a constitutional convention in Louisiana, scheduled to convene on December 2, 2025. The convention will consist of 105 delegates, with 78 elected and 27 appointed from various entities, including the governor. The bill outlines the qualifications for delegates, including residency and age requirements, and sets rules for their conduct, such as restrictions on campaign contributions during the convention. The convention is tasked with drafting a new state constitution, which must be submitted to voters for approval during the 2026 general congressional election.
The legislation also details the organization and funding of the convention, specifying that delegates will receive compensation aligned with state legislators' per diem and travel allowances, while prohibiting additional compensation from other sources. The convention will be funded through state appropriations, with a clear prohibition on accepting private funds. Furthermore, the bill mandates that any provisions of the existing constitution not included in the new draft will transition into statutory law, requiring a two-thirds legislative vote for amendments. Legal challenges related to the convention's actions will be expedited through the judicial system, and the bill includes provisions for the severability of the proposed constitution.