Louisiana lawmakers have put a hold on voting for Gov. Jeff Landry’s plan to provide pay stipends to public school teachers and support workers. This decision comes after a court order was issued in a lawsuit filed against the Landry administration, which temporarily stops the reallocation of $168 million from K-12 school operations.

Court Order Halts Vote

The court order, issued in response to a lawsuit filed by former Central school Superintendent Michael Faulk, Orleans Parish School Board member Katherine Baudouin, and former state school board member Belinda Davis, has raised concerns among lawmakers about the legitimacy of proceeding with the vote. Rep. Tehmi Chassion, D-Lafayette, stated that the temporary restraining order prevents them from casting a vote, as it would be in direct violation of the court’s decision.

Legislative Black Caucus leader Rep. Candace Newell, D-New Orleans, has requested that House Speaker Phillip DeVillier, R-Eunice, and Senate President Cameron Henry, R-Metairie, postpone the voting deadline due to the lawsuit. The caucus has not taken an official stance on the governor’s proposal but is concerned about the potential implications of the court order.

Gov. Landry and Attorney General Liz Murrill argue that the judge’s order does not impact the legislature’s ability to vote on the matter, as lawmakers are not part of the lawsuit. However, the plaintiffs claim that Landry is attempting to usurp the constitutional authority of the Louisiana State Legislature by reallocating state-approved funds.

Teacher Stipend Plan

The proposed plan aims to provide a $2,000 stipend for teachers and $1,000 for support workers next school year. The legislature has included this money in the state budget for the past three years, but proposals to make the increases permanent have failed. The governor needs two-thirds approval from both legislative chambers to move forward with his plan to alter the Minimum Foundation Program.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.