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 parishes and organizations, including the governor. The bill outlines qualifications for delegates, such as residency and age, and sets rules for their conduct, including restrictions on campaign contributions during the convention. The convention is tasked with drafting a new state constitution, which will be submitted to voters for approval during the general congressional election on December 12, 2026.

The bill aims to create a streamlined constitution, addressing the current document's over 200 amendments and excessive detail that complicate legislative processes. Provisions not included in the new constitution will transition into statutory law, amendable by a two-thirds legislative vote. The convention will have an executive committee and various committees to review specific articles of the current constitution, with a completion deadline of October 2, 2026. Additionally, the convention will not be classified as a budget unit of the state, but its financial records will be subject to audit, and it must adhere to the Louisiana Code of Ethics. If ratified, the new constitution will take effect at midnight on December 31, 2026.