Explainer: How did this year’s legislative session impact New Orleans and its residents?

The 2026 Louisiana legislative session, marked by Republican control, impacted New Orleans through redistricting that eliminated a majority-Black congressional district, removal of a local official, criminal justice system cuts, and laws criminalizing unauthorized camping. The city avoided $40 million in penalties and expanded oversight of the Sewerage and Water Board, but faced challenges for undocumented residents and the unhoused.