Election Day in New Orleans: Local propositions on the ballot
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New Orleans voters will have the chance to approve two amendments to the city's governing document when they hit the polls this Election Day.
Why it matters: If approved, the propositions would create a trust fund for affordable housing and establish a workers' bill of rights.
The big picture: The two amendments will be on the ballot for the Nov. 5 election, and early voting starts Friday.
- If approved, they would edit the founding document that defines how city government operates in New Orleans.
- Both amendments were proposed by City Council members and approved unanimously earlier this year, but to be made law, they have to be approved by voters, too.
Worth noting: Some New Orleans voters will also vote on neighborhood-specific local propositions.
- Those include measures for a Lakeshore Crime Prevention district and a Mid-City Security District.
In Jefferson Parish, local propositions include a home rule charter amendment that edits an employment definition for some parish workers, and a security tax for a Stonebridge crime prevention district.
- WWL has an explainer on the home rule charter amendment.
Here's a look at what each of the New Orleans home rule charter amendments would do.
Home Rule Charter Amendment 1
Zoom in: This would create a Housing Trust Fund beginning in 2026.
- It would not create a new tax, but would direct 2% of the city's general fund toward "ensuring the availability of affordable housing for low- to moderate-income residents."
- City Council would manage how the funds get spent, according to WWNO, but they would be administered by the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority and Finance New Orleans.
What you'll see on the ballot: Parishwide HRC Amendment No. 1 of 2 - Amends Art. VI, Sec. 6-201(2) - CC (Select 1)
Home Rule Charter Amendment 2
Zoom in: This would establish a Workers' Bill of Rights within city code, defining that a worker has the right to a fair living wage, paid leave, comprehensive health care coverage and the right to organize a union.
- Even if voters approve the measure, it would not lead to automatic wage increases or improved benefits, Verite notes, because the only parts that are enforceable must correspond with state and federal law.
- Because of that, the measure would be largely symbolic, but supporters say it would "incentivize businesses to fairly compensate and treat employees with respect."
What you'll see on the ballot: Parishwide HRC Amendment No. 2 of 2 - Amends Art. II, Sec. 2-202 - CC (Select 1)