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HB 165

LOTTERY: (Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to lottery proceeds benefitting veterans (RE +$500,000 GF EX See Note)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tehmi Chassion and 1 co-sponsor

Louisiana constitutional amendment redirecting lottery proceeds to veterans benefits programs, pending voter approval and reallocation of education funding.

Read second time by title and referred to the Committee on Finance.
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Bill Summary · HB 165

Legislative bill overview

HB 165 is a constitutional amendment proposal that would dedicate lottery proceeds to benefit veterans in Louisiana. The bill modifies how the state allocates revenues from its lottery system by directing a portion toward veteran-focused programs and services. As a constitutional amendment, it would require voter approval in a statewide referendum.

Why is this important

Louisiana's lottery generates substantial annual revenue currently allocated to education and other state priorities. Redirecting lottery funds to veterans would create a dedicated revenue stream for military-related services, potentially expanding benefits for the state's veteran population. This reflects a policy choice about state spending priorities and how to fund veteran support without necessarily increasing overall state budgets.

Potential points of contention

  • Lottery revenue reallocation: Currently designated lottery funds support education; redirecting them may reduce education funding unless offset by other revenues
  • Constitutional amendment threshold: Requires voter approval, making success dependent on public referendum results and campaign messaging
  • Scope and specificity: The bill's current language doesn't specify which veteran programs benefit, how much revenue is dedicated, or eligibility criteria—raising questions about actual impact and implementation

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

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