Tomorrow, Louisiana will head to the polls to vote on amendments to the State Constitution. These amendments are some of the most significant that we've seen in years. Amendment 2, for example, is the largest proposed change to the Louisiana tax code since the 1970s.

We've gathered information about each amendment and spoken to some experts about what they mean for your family.

The Proposed Amendments

Proposed Amendment No. 1:
Grants the Louisiana Supreme Court authority to discipline out-of-state attorneys for unethical conduct within Louisiana and allows the legislature to establish courts of limited or specialized jurisdiction.

Proposed Amendment No. 2:
Revises Article VII of the Louisiana Constitution related to taxation, finance, and revenue. Includes lowering the maximum income tax rate, increasing deductions for residents over 65, imposing limits on government growth, modifying constitutional funds, providing property tax exemptions (retaining homestead and religious exemptions), permanently increasing teacher salaries via surplus payments toward retirement system debt, and other financial adjustments.

Proposed Amendment No. 3:
Gives the legislature authority to specify felony crimes for which juveniles under age seventeen may be prosecuted as adults.

Proposed Amendment No. 4:
Requires judicial vacancies and newly-created judgeships to be filled at the earliest possible election date.

Here's a link to the SoS page with the full amendment language

Let's take them one by one

Proposed Amendment No. 1:

Pros:

• Enhances accountability by allowing the Louisiana Supreme Court to discipline out-of-state attorneys practicing unethically.

• Provides flexibility to establish specialized courts, potentially improving judicial efficiency.

Cons:

• Could increase complexity and administrative costs by creating new specialized courts.

• Might lead to jurisdictional disputes or confusion regarding oversight of out-of-state attorneys.

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Proposed Amendment No. 2:

Pros:

• Reduces the maximum income tax rate, potentially attracting businesses and encouraging economic growth.

• Provides greater tax relief for citizens aged 65 and older.

• Limits government spending growth and directs surplus funds toward teacher salaries and retirement system obligations.

Cons:

• Lowering income taxes could reduce revenue available for public services.

• May constrain future legislative flexibility due to stringent spending limits.

• Changes to various dedicated funds may cause unintended financial or budgetary disruptions.

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Proposed Amendment No. 3:

Pros:

• Allows legislature greater flexibility to address serious juvenile crimes by prosecuting them as adults when deemed appropriate.

• May act as a stronger deterrent against severe crimes committed by juveniles.

Cons:

• Potentially reduces judicial discretion and rehabilitation opportunities for minors.

• Raises concerns about fairness and the long-term impact of adult prosecution on juveniles.

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Proposed Amendment No. 4:

Pros:

• Ensures judicial vacancies are filled promptly, reducing delays in court proceedings.

• Could improve court efficiency by avoiding prolonged vacancy periods.

Cons:

• May reduce the time available for voters to become informed about judicial candidates.

• Could disadvantage less-known candidates who have less time to campaign effectively.