POLICY & ADVOCACY
As the voice of Louisiana’s economic development professionals, LEAD will be actively engaged during the 2026 legislative session, advocating for policies that strengthen the state’s economic competitiveness and support long-term growth. Our 2026 priorities focus on supporting strong funding for Louisiana Economic Development, investing in development-ready sites and infrastructure, strengthening workforce and education pipelines, improving tax competitiveness, supporting Louisiana’s evolving energy economy, stabilizing the insurance market, and advancing coastal resilience efforts.
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You are encouraged to review LEAD’s 2026 State Legislative Policy Priorities Overview below and engage with us throughout the session as we work together to advance policies that support economic growth across Louisiana. Contact Mandi Mitchell, LEAD Board President and Policy & Advocacy Committee Chair by email at mandi@lafayette.org for additional information.
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LEAD 2026 State Legislative Policy Priorities
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LEAD Policy Priorities Points-of-Contact:
~LEAD Executive Director: Stacy Romero
~LEAD Board President and Policy & Advocacy Committee Chair: Mandi D. Mitchell
About LEAD
The Louisiana Economic Alliance for Development (LEAD) is the leading organization for economic development professionals dedicated to shaping a stronger Louisiana. Through high-impact education, strategic advocacy, and collaborative networking, LEAD empowers professionals at every stage, whether a seasoned practitioner or an emerging leader, with the knowledge, connections, and tools to drive sustainable economic growth, attract investment, and inspire innovation in communities statewide. Together, we create opportunities, amplify voices, and build a thriving economic future for all.
Louisiana Economic Development (LED) & Economic Development Funding Resources
Louisiana Economic Development (LED) plays a central role in the state’s ability to compete for jobs, investment, and new business growth. As the state’s lead economic development agency, LED works closely with regional and local economic development organizations to attract new employers, support existing industries, and strengthen Louisiana’s economic competitiveness. Adequate and consistent funding is essential for LED to effectively implement its strategic plan and deliver results across the state. LEAD advocates for adequate and increased funding for LED to ensure successful implementation of its strategic plan in partnership with regional and local economic development organizations. LEAD supports LED’s efforts to secure funding for the new High Impact Jobs Program, the LED FastSites Program, and LED’s Innovation division – LA.io.
Economic Development Infrastructure
Louisiana’s ability to compete for new business investment depends heavily on the availability of development-ready sites and reliable infrastructure across every region of the state. Employers, site selectors, and entrepreneurs consistently identify infrastructure readiness including transportation access, broadband connectivity, and reliable utilities as a determining factor in business location and expansion decisions. Without modern infrastructure and site readiness, Louisiana risks losing projects that create jobs, expand the tax base, and strengthen local communities. LEAD advocates for sustained investment in the development of certified and development-ready sites statewide, along with increased public investment in the foundational infrastructure that drives economic growth including transportation networks, broadband connectivity, and utility systems.
Workforce Development & Education
A strong and competitive workforce is one of Louisiana’s most important economic assets. Companies evaluating locations increasingly prioritize access to skilled talent, making investments in education and workforce development essential to the state’s long-term economic growth. Strengthening Louisiana’s talent pipeline from early education through post-secondary training and career pathways ensures residents are prepared for high-demand careers while providing employers with the workforce they need to succeed. LEAD advocates for enhanced state resources and policy reforms that strengthen talent development across the full education-to-career continuum, including early childhood education, innovative K–12 programming, work-based learning opportunities for high school students, and industry-aligned post-secondary education and training programs.
Tax Competitiveness
A stable, predictable, and competitive tax structure is critical to Louisiana’s ability to attract and retain businesses, investment, and talent. Employers and entrepreneurs consider tax policy when making decisions about where to locate, grow, and hire. Simplifying and modernizing Louisiana’s tax framework can enhance economic competitiveness while providing greater clarity and stability for businesses and residents. LEAD supports continued efforts to reduce corporate and individual tax rates while simplifying and modernizing Louisiana’s tax framework, including streamlining sales tax collection and a gradual phase-out of the Inventory Tax in a manner that allows local governments to responsibly replace lost revenue.
Energy Evolution
Louisiana is uniquely positioned to be a global leader in energy production and export. With a long-standing legacy in oil and gas, world-class port infrastructure, and a highly skilled energy workforce, the state is also emerging as a key hub for next-generation energy technologies including carbon capture, hydrogen, offshore wind, and solar. By leveraging both traditional and emerging energy resources, Louisiana can strengthen its economy while supporting national energy security and global energy demand. LEAD supports policies, investments, and incentives that advance Louisiana’s “all-of-the-above” energy strategy sustaining the state’s leadership in oil and gas while encouraging innovation and investment in alternative energy sources to solidify Louisiana’s position as a premier global energy exporter.
Insurance Market Stabilization
The affordability and availability of insurance have become critical economic issues in Louisiana, affecting both residents and businesses. High costs and limited availability of property and automobile insurance have disrupted residential and commercial transactions, increased operating costs for businesses, and created challenges for talent attraction and retention. While recent reforms have produced some positive developments, continued efforts are necessary to ensure meaningful and lasting improvements in the market. LEAD supports policy measures that strengthen and stabilize Louisiana’s insurance market and reduce the overall cost of insurance for residents and businesses.
Coastal Protection & Resilience
Louisiana’s coast is vital to the state’s economy, communities, and infrastructure. Coastal land loss and increased storm risks threaten critical industries, transportation networks, energy infrastructure, and population centers. Strategic investments in coastal restoration, flood protection, and resilience planning are essential to protecting economic assets and ensuring long-term economic stability. LEAD supports continued strategic investments in coastal restoration, flood mitigation, and resilience initiatives that protect communities, safeguard key industries, and support sustainable economic growth. LEAD also advocates for the resources necessary to implement resilience, mitigation, and adaptation strategies across the state.
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