Louisiana Legislature Wraps 2026 Session: Lawmakers adjourned after approving a $47B balanced budget, with major funding for K-12 (including Minimum Foundation Program), higher education, roads and infrastructure, and economic development aimed at attracting private industry and higher-paying jobs. Child Safety Oversight: A late-session push passed tougher oversight of child deaths, requiring more thorough reviews of child abuse and neglect cases and more detailed reporting to a state watchdog and legislators. Public Health Policy: Louisiana sent a bill to the governor to create a psychedelic-assisted therapy pilot program funded by opioid settlement dollars. Hurricane Readiness: The National Hurricane Center is expanding its forecast cone to include inland watches and warnings, and LSU experts say family plans should cover pets and livestock—not just people. Workplace Health & Safety: A new American Heart Association statement reinforces that physical activity improves heart health even without weight loss. Healthcare Workforce Recognition: Agape Care Group was named a Top Workplace for Nursing by Nurse.com, citing employee feedback on support and growth. Local Health Education: LSU’s veterinary school awarded 128 DVM degrees, including several students from the region. Safety and Community: Louisiana State Police reported a fatal wrong-way crash on I-12 near Tangipahoa Parish, and an attempted murder charge after a stabbing in Galliano.