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Committee endorses bill to ban wagering on elections in Louisiana
Summary
The committee advanced SB 90, authored by Sen. Edmonds and carried by Secretary of State Nancy Landry, to prohibit wagering on elections statewide. The bill was reported favorably with no objections from committee members and drew support from the secretary of state and several organizations.
The Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs on April 30 reported Senate Bill 90 favorably. The bill, carried in committee by Secretary of State Nancy Landry and sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Edmonds, would codify a statewide prohibition on wagering on elections into the state election‑offenses statute.
Landry told the committee that 31 states already have statutes banning or restricting wagering on election outcomes and that online platforms have made placing bets on contests easier. “My concern stems from the lengths people will go to ensure a a certain financial outcome incentivizing bad actors or actions,” Landry said, explaining that the state already bars election staff from wagering and that a statewide ban closes a potential loophole.
Committee members signaled support. Sen. Womack moved to report the bill favorably and there were no objections. Witnesses filed green cards in support from industry representatives and civic groups; some firms listed their support but did not ask to speak.
What’s next: SB 90 is reported out of committee and would continue through the legislative process if brought to the full Senate.
Ending: Supporters framed the measure as part of a broader voter‑protection package; the committee advanced the bill without formal dissent.
