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HR 128

SPECIAL DAY/WEEK/MONTH: Designates April 14, 2026, as Acadiana's Red and White Day at the state capitol

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tehmi Chassion

Designates April 14, 2026 as Acadiana’s Red and White Day to ceremonially recognize and promote the Acadiana region’s economy, education, and collaboration with the state.

Taken by the Clerk of the House and presented to the Secretary of State in accordance with the Rules of the House.
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Bill Summary · HR 128

Summary of HR 128 (2026 Session, Louisiana)

Title

Special Day/Week/Month: Designates April 14, 2026, as Acadiana's Red and White Day at the state capitol

Objective and Purpose

  • Designates a specific day, Tuesday, April 14, 2026, as “Acadiana’s Red and White Day” at the Louisiana State Capitol.
  • The designation is intended to promote the region of Acadiana, its economic development, civic and educational partnerships, and the shared interests of the Acadiana region.
  • The resolution aims to foster dialogue between state lawmakers and local stakeholders and to recognize ongoing investment and development in Acadiana.

Key Provisions

  • Official designation: Tuesday, April 14, 2026, is named Acadiana’s Red and White Day at the state capitol.
  • Support and rationale: The resolution cites collaboration among One Acadiana, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and the UL Lafayette Alumni Association in promoting Acadiana’s interests and identity.
  • Contextual justification: Highlights Acadiana’s economic impact, educational contributions, and regional leadership, including:
    • UL Lafayette’s statewide economic impact: $4.4 billion annually and more than 47,500 jobs supported.
    • Economic multiplier: Every $1 invested in UL Lafayette generates $7.30 in statewide economic impact.
    • Student origins and retention: 90% of UL Lafayette students are Louisiana residents; 72% of Louisiana-origin graduates remain in-state for 10 years after earning a bachelor’s degree.
    • Carnegie designation: UL Lafayette designated as a Tier I (Carnegie R1) research university for at least the second time.
    • Research investment: $1.7 billion spent on groundbreaking research since 2013; high levels of industry-funded research (ranking fourth nationally).
    • Leadership note: In March 2026, UL Lafayette welcomed its seventh president, Dr. Ramesh Kolluru, described as an “Honorary Cajun.”
  • No operative or funding provisions: The resolution is a ceremonial designation and does not include appropriations, regulatory changes, or enforcement mechanisms.

Affected Parties

  • Primary focus: Acadiana region, including its residents, businesses, educational institutions, and stakeholders.
  • Institutional references: One Acadiana, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, UL Lafayette Alumni Association, state lawmakers, and state government.
  • The designation serves as a ceremonial recognition intended to promote the region’s interests and foster state-local collaboration.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Legislative action: House of Representatives adopted the resolution on April 14, 2026; the action history indicates it was read by title and adopted on that date.
  • Referral and processing: The bill is a non-binding concurrent resolution (ceremonial in nature) and does not create enforceable duties or budgetary changes.
  • Post-adoption: After passage in the House, the resolution was forwarded to the Secretary of State for certification.

Overall Impact

  • Civic and symbolic impact: Builds public acknowledgment of Acadiana’s contributions to Louisiana’s economy, education ecosystem, and culture.
  • Policy effect: None in terms of lawmaking, enforcement, or funding; serves as a formal commendation and celebration of regional identity and collaboration.
  • Public communication: Provides a focal point for dialogue between state policymakers and Acadiana stakeholders during the designated day.

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

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