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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SUMMARY: As election results come in, Republicans are close to regaining control of the House, needing just five more seats for a majority, which would enable them to advance their agenda alongside the White House. Current counts show Republicans with 213 seats and Democrats with 202. Democrats are analyzing their losses among key demographic groups, including young voters and minorities. Notably, Republicans flipped 10 counties in California by addressing concerns like homelessness and crime. Despite significant shifts in traditionally liberal states, it could take days to finalize results in battleground districts due to mail-in ballots.

FOX 14 Your Morning News: Parties continue to fight for House control after 2024 Presidential Election

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