SUMMARY: The Caddo Parish School Board held a work session to approve agenda items for the upcoming meeting on Nov. 19. A key proposal was the purchase of property at 2020 Midway Avenue, intended to serve as a hub for the transportation department. Concerns were raised by District 10 member Katie McLain about spending on property amid a declining student population. Superintendent Keith Burton emphasized safety and operational benefits. However, members Barry Rachal and Don Little questioned financial commitments and requested an environmental impact study. All agenda items were ultimately approved for consideration at the upcoming meeting.

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SUMMARY: The Louisiana House of Representatives approved a bill by Rep. Julie Emerson aimed at overhauling Article 7 of the state constitution, with a vote of 81-15. This significant reform, which targets taxation policy and exemptions, is set to go to the Senate and, if passed, will be on the March ballot pending Gov. Jeff Landry’s signature. The bill mandates a two-thirds legislative majority for new tax exemptions and plans to consolidate state funds to provide a permanent $2,000 pay raise for teachers. Despite the increase, Louisiana teachers will still earn $15,000 less than the national average.

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SUMMARY: The Louisiana House approved House Bill 1, proposing a flat income tax rate of 3% for all brackets and raising the standard deduction to $12,500, which would eliminate tax burdens for the lowest income group. The bill passed 87-12 and will now move to the Senate. It also seeks to repeal the corporate franchise tax. Concerns were raised by Democrats about replacing income tax with expanded sales taxes, potentially increasing costs for consumers. The bill draws inspiration from tax reforms in North Carolina, which officials believe contributed to economic growth in that state.

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