On March 26th the Louisiana Senate approved, by a vote of 37-0, a bill that aims to limit the influence of three prominent global organizations within the state.
Senate Bill 133, introduced by Republican state Senators Valarie Hodges and Thomas A. Pressly along with state Rep. Kathy Edmonston, seeks to prevent the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations (UN), and the World Economic Forum (WEF) from exercising authority or jurisdiction in Louisiana.
The proposed law prohibits the state and its governmental bodies from implementing or enforcing any rules, regulations, fees, tax policies, or mandates associated with these global organizations. Sen. Hodges emphasized that the bill is a response to years of efforts to protect Louisiana’s sovereignty from what she perceives as overreach by the WHO, UN, and WEF.
She criticized these organizations for their handling of medical recommendations, alleging that their actions led to harm for many Americans who relied on their advice regarding vaccines. The bill’s supporters argue that decisions related to state laws should be made by elected officials within the state rather than international bodies.
If the bill passes the House of Representatives and receives final approval from Gov. Jeff Landry, it is set to take effect on August 1, 2024. However, the potential response from the federal government or the courts remains uncertain.
Critics of the WHO’s Pandemic Preparedness Treaty, which is scheduled for a vote on May 27, have voiced concerns about transparency, potential financial burdens for U.S. taxpayers, and threats to intellectual property rights and free speech. Republican lawmakers have also accused the WHO of prioritizing political interests over scientific guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic and expressed opposition to the proposed treaty’s impact on national sovereignty.
Supporters of the bill are hopeful that other states will follow suit, replicating Louisiana’s efforts to limit the influence of global organizations within their own jurisdictions.