(Originally posted in Citizens for a New Louisiana, by Rep. Phillip Tarver) —  Louisiana stands at a crossroads. For too long, unchecked government spending has been bankrupting our taxpayers, expanding budgets beyond control, and putting our state’s future at serious risk. It’s time for a course correction, and that’s why I’ve introduced two bills to help Louisiana establish a real limit on government growth.

House Bill 295 proposes a constitutional amendment to establish a Government Growth Limit on recurring State General Fund spending. House Bill 283 is the companion statute that would take effect if the people approve the amendment at the ballot box.

Living Within Our Means

The idea is simple: government must live within its means, just like Louisiana families do. Under this legislation, annual spending increases would be tied to population growth and inflation. If our economy isn’t booming, government spending shouldn’t be either. This safeguard protects taxpayers from being crushed under bloated programs and endless budget increases.

If revenues coming in exceed the growth limit spending allowance, these funds could not be used to launch new ongoing programs. Instead, they would be directed to one-time needs like fixing roads or paying down debt. It’s about securing Louisiana’s future rather than chasing short-term political wins.

Ending Runaway Spending

This is a bold step to rein in runaway spending and stand up for the families and small businesses who are tired of being treated like an endless piggy bank. Taxpayers deserve a government that spends wisely, saves when times are good, and plans responsibly for the future. When Louisiana families tighten their belts, Baton Rouge must do the same.

This effort is about restoring trust. People deserve to know their hard-earned dollars are being handled responsibly. This legislation sends a clear message: Louisiana is serious about protecting taxpayers and fixing the broken culture of overspending once and for all.

The choice facing the legislature is simple: pass these reforms and put Louisiana on a stronger path—or allow runaway growth to continue bankrupting the people we serve. The LA Freedom Caucus is fighting for a future where Louisiana’s economy grows, families thrive, and government knows its limits. I urge my colleagues and the people of our great state to stand with us.

Let’s choose fiscal responsibility. Let’s choose Louisiana’s future.

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Phillip Tarver is the State Representative from District 36 (Calcasieu). He serves on the Education, Labor &  Industrial Relations, Transportation, Highways and Public Works Committees, the Select Committee on Homeland Security, and as the Executive Officer of the LA Freedom Caucus.