Louisiana Legislature Expresses Support for Israel

The Louisiana legislature passed a House concurrent resolution by Rep. Valarie Hodges of the East Baton Rouge area that “expresses support for the people of Israel and for their right to live in freedom and to defend themselves and extends best wishes to the people of Israel for peace, security and prosperity.”

The resolution was adopted on May 8 and sent to the Senate, where it passed 36-0. It was sent to the Secretary of State on May 24.

A Senate resolution, by Sen. A.G. Crowe of Slidell and Rep. Hodges, urges and requests “the President of the United States to maintain steadfast support for the State of Israel and express vigorous support and unwavering commitment to the welfare, security and survival of the State of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state with secure borders.”

The Senate resolution details the Jewish community’s history in Louisiana dating back to the early 18th century, with the first congregation — Gates of Mercy — founded in 1828.

The Senate bill passed 30-0 on May 10 and was sent to the Secretary of State’s office on May 21 after being passed by the House.