Panel creates task force to study homeland security threats, refers measure with dual referral

The Louisiana House Judiciary Committee reported favorably on House Resolution 242, which would create the Louisiana State Homeland Security Task Force to study and recommend responses to growing threats to homeland security across the state.

Representative Charles Owen and Representative Galloway (transcribed) explained that former Senator Barry Milligan helped frame the proposal and that the task force would study "clear and present threats" and recommend legislation and policy for the House to consider. Former Senator Barry Milligan told the committee he had led homeland security efforts on the Senate side and wanted to continue contributing to state policy.

Committee staff noted that because the resolution names a legislator to the task force, House Rule 6.8 requires a dual referral to House and Governmental Affairs; committee members agreed. Representative Edmondson moved to report favorably with a referral to Housing and Governmental Affairs; the motion carried with no objections.

The committee’s action creates the task force subject to dual referral rules; it does not itself enact policy recommendations. Committee members praised staff and the committee’s work during the session at adjournment.