Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
Members of the Republican Women of Bossier gathered Tuesday, Aug. 25, for an update from local legislators on the recently completed legislative session and the issues they say will continue to shape Louisiana’s future.
The meeting featured comments from State Rep. Raymond J. Crews, Republican District 8; State Sen. J. Adam Bass, Republican District 36; State Rep. Dodie Horton, Republican District 9; State Rep. Dennis Bamburg Jr., Republican District 5; and State Rep. Michael Melerine, Republican District 6.
The legislators discussed the recently completed legislative session and provided updates on issues affecting Bossier Parish and communities throughout Louisiana, including economic development, education, infrastructure, rural health care and workforce development.
Louisiana has also been recognized as the nation’s leading state for new economic development projects, according to state economic development officials. The average annual wage associated with the new jobs tied to these projects has been reported at approximately $87,000.
The legislators also discussed progress in education, noting that Louisiana has seen significant improvements in national education rankings. The state’s recent academic gains have drawn national attention, with Louisiana ranking first among states for reading growth and second in math growth in the 2026 Education Recovery Scorecard.
Workforce development was another area of emphasis during the discussion. Legislators said preparing Louisiana residents for the jobs being created by new economic development projects will remain an important part of the state’s growth.
The discussion also included infrastructure projects across northwest Louisiana. Legislators highlighted the region’s share of Capitol outlay projects, along with continued attention to rural roads and efforts to address the needs of rural hospitals.
The group also discussed the importance of the state’s continued investment in workforce development as businesses bring new jobs and capital into Louisiana.
Among the economic development announcements discussed was SpaceX’s planned expansion in Louisiana, which is expected to bring approximately 3,000 jobs to the state.
Bass also thanked members of the Republican Women of Bossier for their support of the local legislative delegation.
Bass said it was meaningful to have members of the organization travel to the state Capitol, stand behind the delegation and pray for lawmakers during the legislative session. He also emphasized the strong working relationship among the area’s legislative delegation.
The meeting also looked beyond the recently completed session and toward the upcoming political season. Two members of the Republican Women of Bossier are preparing to attend the national midterm convention, representing the local organization on a larger stage as Republicans prepare for the 2026 midterm elections.
The meeting provided members with an opportunity to hear directly from lawmakers about the work taking place in Baton Rouge and the potential impact on Bossier Parish and northwest Louisiana.
For the Republican Women of Bossier, the discussion also reinforced the organization’s continued interest in staying connected with local legislators and informed about issues affecting the community, the state and its future.