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Bill

HB 400

ELECTION DAYS: Provides that bond and tax elections shall be held only on regularly scheduled fall election dates (RE SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bryan Fontenot

Louisiana HB 400 requires bond and tax elections to occur only during scheduled fall election dates, restricting districts' ability to call special elections for funding measures.

Read second time by title and referred to the Committee on Senate and Governmental Affairs.
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Bill Summary · HB 400

Legislative bill overview

HB 400 restricts when Louisiana school districts and other local entities can hold bond and tax elections by requiring them to occur only on regularly scheduled fall election dates rather than on specially called dates throughout the year. This consolidates election scheduling to specific predetermined dates, primarily in November.

Why is this important

This change affects voter participation and local government finances by potentially increasing turnout (fall elections typically have higher participation) while limiting the flexibility of school districts and municipalities to time tax or bond measures strategically. It also reduces election administration costs by consolidating elections but may delay critical funding decisions for local projects or operations.

Potential points of contention

  • Reduced local control: Districts lose flexibility to call elections when they have urgent funding needs or believe conditions are favorable for passage
  • Delayed critical infrastructure: Schools or municipalities facing immediate facility needs may face extended waiting periods before they can seek voter approval for bonds
  • Election timing strategy: Advocates argue fall elections help measures pass; opponents contend specially-timed elections allow for more focused voter engagement on specific issues

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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