The following highlights from the 2024 LegisGator Luncheon was provided by the SWLA Economic Development Alliance:
United States Speaker of the House Mike Johnson was awarded this year’s LegisGator of the Year for leadership and collaborative efforts.
Over nine hundred Chamber SWLA members, colleagues, elected officials and visitors were in attendance to the state legislators honored for their commitment to the Chamber’s pro-business legislative agenda during the 2024 Legislative Session.
“The purpose of our LegisGator Luncheon is to thank the members of the state legislature and our congressional delegation for supporting the pro-business agenda of the Chamber Southwest Louisiana and our allies. We appreciate their willingness to serve,” said George Swift, President/CEO of the Chamber SWLA.
Secretary of State Nancy Landry, Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple, State Treasurer Dr. John Fleming, and Attorney Liz Murill gave remarks at the event which also included Federal level updates from Congressman Clay Higgins, Congresswoman Julia Letlow, and Congressman Garret Graves.
Former Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin spoke on behalf of Governor Landry who was unable to attend.
Joining the event through video were Lt. Governor Billy Nunngesser and Congressman Steve Scalise.
Rising Star Award: Representative Brach Myers for passing legislation in his first regular session to revitalize the state’s Healthcare Employee Reinvestment Opportunity Program which was established to meet the employment demands for nursing and allied health professionals throughout the state.
Public Policy Award: Senator Mark Abraham for his work to provide stable funding for McNeese, SOWELA, our hospitals, port and the other economic engines that fuel our economy. “More recently he has been a tireless advocate for the new I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge as a major infrastructure improvement that will have a lasting impact on our entire state. This year, he successfully passed legislation to insure that all toll revenue generated from the bridge stays in the five parish region of Southwest Louisiana.