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Michael Melerine — Republican State Representative for Louisiana District 6 (official headshot)

Michael Melerine Voting Record & Scorecard | National Democrat Platform

LA Representative

District: 6 • Republican

2025 DEM Alignment:

61.19%

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Voting Alignment with DEM Platform – by Chapter

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Rep. Michael Melerine (R-LA-6) earned a 61% National Democrat Platform score for 2025, showing moderate alignment with Democratic Party Platform principles. Michael Melerine voted on 67 of the 75 substantive bills scored by Dem Platform in 2025. Michael Melerine represents the 6th District in the Louisiana House of Representatives.

Title

Lawmaker Position

HB 119House 20251x

Slightly Reducing Overreaching Government Restrictions by Allowing Darker Tinting on Vehicle Windows.

With DEMs
This bill allows for darker tinting on vehicle windows by reducing the minimum light transmission percentage required for front windows. These windows are required to allow at least 25% (previously 40%) of light to pass through. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 125House 20251x

Protecting Privacy Rights by Prohibiting the Use of Human Genetic Sequencer and Analysis Software Produced in U.S. Foreign Adversary Countries.

With DEMs
This bill enacts the "Louisiana Human Genomic Security Act of 2025," which prohibits medical and research facilities from using human genetic sequencers or software for human genetic analysis that is produced by U.S. foreign adversaries, including China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, or companies located in, or controlled by the governments of, those countries. The bill also prohibits storing human genetic information in U.S. foreign adversary countries and prohibits remote access to the information from these countries. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 126House 20251x

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending by Increasing Annual Appropriations to Parish Councils on Aging by Over $3.5 Million.

Against DEMs
This bill increases the per-person allotment for parish councils on aging to $4.00 (previously $2.50) per resident 60 or older, or $150,000 (previously $100,000), whichever is greater. The bill also increases the minimum annual appropriation to the Office of Elderly Affairs, from $6.9 million to over $10.4 million, an increase of over 52%. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 153House 20251x

Strengthening the Integrity of the Unemployment Insurance System Through Increased Work Search Requirements.

With DEMs
This bill requires that those receiving unemployment benefits must conduct at least five work search actions each week. The bill also expands disqualification criteria to include failing to appear for a scheduled job interview or participate in an approved training program. Additionally, the bill directs the secretary of the Louisiana Workforce Commission to establish a form for employers to report suspected work search violations. Combatting fraud within the state''s unemployment insurance system is critical to maintaining low payroll taxes for businesses which are forced to pay into the system. While unemployment insurance should not be carried out by government - rather, a system should be established whereby individuals and companies can purchase into a program on the private marketplace - lawmakers have a duty to maintain the integrity of the system. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 208House 20251x

Strengthening Public Safety by Increasing the Length of Good Behavior Required Before Eligibility for Parole and Allowing Illegal Immigrants to be Released for Deportation or Removal.

With DEMs
This bill revises eligibility for parole and reduction of sentences. Under the bill, an inmate must not have committed any major disciplinary offenses for 36 months (previously 12) to be eligible to be released on parole or to participate in the Post-Conviction Veterans Mentor Program. Additionally, a sentence may not be reduced through "good time" for habitual offenders or for sex offenses. If an individual on unsupervised parole is convicted for another offense, any "good time" or credits toward reducing the sentence must be added to the sentence. The bill also establishes an "Alien Removal Process" that allows for the release of certain illegal immigrants to the custody of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for deportation or removal, with the remainder of the sentence suspended. The person must have a final order of removal or a federal immigration detainer and the sentence may not be for a sex offense or a crime of violence that is punishable by 10 years or more in prison, life imprisonment, or death. The Governor and parish District Attorney must also approve of a deportation eligibility hearing. If the person is discovered in the U.S. after being deported or removed, the balance of the sentence must be served. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 216House 20251x

Increasing Government Transparency by Requiring the Board of Ethics to Record and Broadcast Public Meetings.

Against DEMs
This bill requires the Louisiana Board of Ethics, including when functioning as the Supervisory Committee on Campaign Finance Disclosure, to record and broadcast its public meetings live and to maintain a publicly-available online archive of recordings for at least two years. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 220House 20251x

Weakening the Ability of Individuals to Defend Themselves Against Assailants by Establishing the Crime of "Unlawful Storage of a Firearm".

With DEMs
This bill establishes the crime of "Unlawful storage of a firearm" for leaving a loaded firearm in a residence or vehicle if a minor obtains the firearm and discharges it or exhibits it in public. This applies if the person knew, or should have known, that a minor was "likely to gain access to the firearm" without permission. The offense does not apply if the firearm is secured with a trigger lock or stored in a locked container. Violations carry a sentence of up to 6 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. The bill includes exceptions when a firearm was stolen or when a minor had permission to access the firearm for lawful purposes, such as hunting or sporting activities. This nanny-state and one size-fits-all mandate harms the ability of a responsible firearm owner to quickly defend themselves against an intruder. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 247House 20251x

Weakening Property Rights by Establishing an Expedited Process for East Baton Rouge Parish and the City of Baton Rouge to Seize Blighted Properties Through Eminent Domain.

Against DEMs
This bill establishes an expedited process for East Baton Rouge Parish and the city of Baton Rouge to seize blighted private properties through eminent domain. The bill allowed such properties to be seized prior to a court judgment determining the value owed to the property owner. The owner must be provided at least 15 days'' notice. When selling the property, the bill allows the governments to establish a preference for-profit or nonprofit organizations that will rehabilitate or construct housing for low-income families. This bill weakens property rights and expands the ability of officials to take property through eminent domain. Eminent domain should only be utilized as a measure of last resort and for cases of significant general societal benefit. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 264House 20251x

Growing Government Regulatory Power within the Pharmaceutical Industry by Imposing a Series of New Mandates on Pharmacy Benefit Managers.

Against DEMs
This bill imposes a series of new regulations on Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs). For example, PBMs are restricted from utilizing "spread pricing" models or utilizing certain reimbursement practices. The nation witnessed first-hand the disastrous consequences and cost of growing government regulatory power in healthcare (i.e. Obamacare). Instead of working to promote a freer market through regulatory reduction, lawmakers added a series of new layers of regulations through this measure, including utilizing government to provide local pharmacies with more favorable outcomes in their private contract negotiations with PBMs. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 266House 20251x

Further Growing Medicaid Welfare Spending by Hiking the Monthly Personal Needs Allowance at Long-Term Care Facilities.

Against DEMs
This bill directs the Louisiana Department of Health to increase the personal needs allowance provided to Medicaid welfare recipients at long-term care facilities (nursing homes). Under the bill, the monthly allowance is increased by over 31%, from $38 to at least $50 for individuals and from $76 to at least $100 for couples, which are more than double the federal monthly minimum. The private sector (charitable entities) is best equipped to provide any additional needs or services to residents not provided by their long-term care facility. While this measure continues to grow government spending, it most concerningly serves as yet another incentive for government dependency over lifelong saving and personal fiscal responsibility. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 289House 20251x

Expanding Protections Against Efforts to Force Firearm and Ammunition Manufacturers Out of Business Through Frivolous and Costly Litigation.

With DEMs
This bill expands civil liability protections to include firearm and ammunition manufacturers, distributors, and sellers for damages resulting from the criminal or unlawful use of their products. Previously, the protection only included firearm manufacturers and sellers. Additionally, the bill provides that in a civil lawsuit, if the defendant is found not liable based on these protections, courts are required to award the defendant attorney fees, costs, expenses, and compensation for lost income. Similarly, if a locality brings a civil lawsuit for such damages, which is precluded by state law, courts are required to award the defendant reasonable attorney fees, court costs, compensation for lost income, and all expenses. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 293 (House Version)House 20251x

Strengthening "Right to Work" Protections for Public Employees Through Protections on Deducting Union Dues from Paychecks.

With DEMs
This bill prohibits public employers from deducting union dues or fees from employee paychecks unless authorized by the employee and reauthorized annually. Additionally, employees may discontinue such deductions at any time. While such deductions should be eliminated entirely, as it is not the role of taxpayers and the state to serve as a dues collector for unions, this bill is a step in the right direction. All employees should have the "right to work" without being forced to join a labor union. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 295House 20251x

Promoting Fiscal Responsibility Through a Constitutional Amendment Establishing a "Government Growth Limit" Restricting General Fund Appropriations.

With DEMs
This bill amends the state Constitution to establish a "Government Growth Limit," which restricts the amount of State General Fund revenues that can be appropriated in a fiscal year for recurring expenses, starting in Fiscal Year 2027-2028. The limit would be determined annually by the Revenue Estimating Conference. Any revenues above the "Government Growth Limit" but less than the "Expenditure Limit" may only be used for nonrecurring expenses. The growth limit may be changed by a 2/3 vote of each chamber of the legislature, but only if the growth factor in the previous 3 years was 2.5% or less. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 307House 20251x

Discouraging Illegal Immigration by Requiring State Agencies to Determine and Report the Immigration Status of Applicants for Public Assistance Benefits.

With DEMs
This bill requires state agencies and localities to verify the citizenship or immigration status of individuals who apply for federal, state, or local public assistance benefits, such as welfare, housing assistance, or food assistance, and to report applicants who are not U.S. citizens to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Agencies and localities also must discontinue providing any benefits upon a determination than a recipient is an illegal immigrant. Lawmakers must eliminate all incentives that may encourage illegal immigration, including taxpayer-funded benefits surrounding housing, education, and other welfare programs. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 309House 20251x

Protecting Taxpayers by Prohibiting Appropriations to Nongovernmental Entities in Appropriations Bills.

With DEMs
This bill prohibits appropriations to nongovernmental entities that are not a budget unit or political subdivision of the state, in the General Appropriation Bill, capital outlay bill, or any appropriation bill that includes an appropriation for a budget unit or a political subdivision. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 313House 20251x

Shifting Tax Burdens and Expanding Cronyism Through a Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Purchases Made by Nonprofit Child Advocacy Centers.

Against DEMs
This bill establishes a sales and use tax exemption for purchases made by nonprofit child advocacy centers. While this measure is well intentioned, all state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 325House 20251x

Reforming the Tax Code Within the Cigar Industry to Temporarily End Excessive Taxation of Premium Cigars.

Against DEMs
This bill temporarily establishes a maximum tax of 50 cents per cigar. Previously, cigars invoiced by the manufacturer at more than $120 per 1,000 were taxed at 20% (cigars invoiced at $120 per 1,000 or less are taxed at 8%). In 2026 and 2027, for cigars invoiced at more than $120 but less than $2,500 per 1,000, the tax rate remains at 20%. For cigars invoiced at $2,500 or more per 1,000, the tax rate is set at 50 cents per cigar. Beginning in 2028, the tax rate reverts to 20% for cigars invoiced at more than $120 per 1,000. This bill serves as a step in the right direction. Tobacco usage is an individual liberty, and products should only be subject to the standard sales tax rate. Users should not be punished through a 20% "sin tax". Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 37House 20251x

Expanding Government Overreach by Imposing New Mandates on Social Media Companies Concerning Usage by Individuals Under Age 18.

Against DEMs
This bill enacts the "Kids Online Protection and Anti-Grooming Act," which requires online platforms that contract with minors, such as social media and gaming sites, to impose certain privacy settings for minors by default. These include protections such as preventing adult connections to minors without parental consent, preventing private messaging between an unconnected adult and a minor, and preventing disclosure of a minor''s location. Platforms are also required to allows a minor''s parent or guardian to be notified if the minor is exposed to sexually explicit material or connects with another user. While the intent of this bill is noble, it is the role of parents - not politicians - to oversee their children''s social media usage. This bill expands the nanny state by imposing new regulations on private companies. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 371House 20251x

Strengthening Religious Liberties by Ensuring Places of Worship are Not Subject to Any More Severe Government Restrictions than Secular Businesses or Assemblies.

With DEMs
This bill increases protection of religious liberties by prohibiting the government from imposing restrictions on places of worship that are more severe than those applied to secular businesses or assemblies. Additionally, if a place of worship meets the applicable zoning, building code, fire safety, and occupancy license requirements, the government may not restrict various uses of the property, such as restricting the type of religious instruction or activities, or certain uses related to homeschooling or private schools. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 379House 20251x

Expanding Government Overreach by Restricting the Inclusion of Binding Arbitration in Property Insurance Policies.

Against DEMs
This bill prohibits the inclusion of a provision in property insurance policies requiring binding arbitration, unless certain requirements are met. In order to include such a provision, the policy must include a separate arbitration endorsement along with a credit or premium discount, and policyholders must sign a form acknowledging the rights forfeited by opting into binding arbitration. Insurance companies must also offer a traditional policy without a binding arbitration provision. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 393House 20251x

Strengthening Self-Defense and Second Amendment Rights by Clarifying that Parade Spectators May Carry a Concealed Firearm.

With DEMs
This bill clarifies that the state''s prohibition on firearms in parades only applies to active participants, and not spectators. "Gun free zones" do not protect communities, rather they place individuals in defenseless positions against criminals who do not abide by the law. While the prohibition should be eliminated entirely, this measure serves as a step in the right direction. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 400House 20251x

Strengthening Parental Rights by Requiring Consent for Medical and Mental Health Treatment for Minors Under 17.

With DEMs
This bill requires consent from a parent or legal guardian for medical and mental health services for individuals under 17. This bill allows exceptions for certain situations, such as emergencies, pregnancy-related care, substance use treatment, blood donation, and cases where the minor is experiencing abuse or neglect. The bill also eliminates a provision in existing law that allowed minors to consent to preventive counseling and treatment in schools. Strong parental rights are a critical element of a free society. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 407House 20251x

Strengthening Second Amendment Rights by Allowing Residents of Other States to Obtain a Concealed Handgun Permit.

With DEMs
This bill eliminates the requirement that an applicant for a concealed handgun permit be a Louisiana resident. James Madison and our nation''s other founding fathers understood that the right to keep and bear arms is a crucial individual liberty and protects the citizenry against a tyrannical government. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 408House 20251x

Hiking Health Insurance Premiums by Mandating Coverage for Proton Therapy for Cancer.

Against DEMs
This bill enacts the "The Gillian Guiffreda Act," which requires most health insurance plans offered in the state to provide coverage for pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS), pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections (PANDAS), and other types of autoimmune encephalitis (AE). This includes IV immunoglobulin therapy. Each and every health insurance mandate prevents an individual from selecting a plan with just basic or customized coverages to fit their specific needs. As a result, health insurers are forced to only offer costly plans loaded with coverages that most individuals do not need. This can result in lower-income or younger individuals choosing to purchase no insurance plan at all due to the high cost. Oppose is the Limited Government.
HB 425House 20251x

Strengthening Protections for Pregnant Women by Expanding the Crime of Coerced Abortion.

With DEMs
This bill expands the crime of coerced abortion to also include the use or threat of control or intimidation, rather than only physical force. The bill specifies that physical force, control, or intimidation means battery, assault, simple kidnapping, false imprisonment, and extortion. Additionally, the bill removes the requirement that the force, control, or intimidation be against the pregnant woman. The bill also expands the crime of extortion to include threats aimed at compelling a pregnant woman to undergo an abortion. All abortions are tragedies and every child deserves the right to life. Support.
HB 434House 20251x

Reducing Auto Insurance Premiums by Increasing the Threshold for Uninsured Drivers to Recover Damages.

With DEMs
This bill strengthens the state''s "No Pay, No Play" law, which limits the ability of uninsured drivers to recover damages in motor vehicle accidents. Under the bill, the recovery threshold for uninsured drivers is increased from $100,000 (previously $15,000 for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage). As a result, uninsured drivers involved in accidents cannot recover the first $100,000 in damages, regardless of fault. Additionally, if an uninsured driver files a civil action and is awarded damages equal to or less than the threshold, they are responsible for all court costs. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 436House 20251x

Further Discouraging Illegal Immigration by Prohibiting Courts from Awarding General Damages or Lost Wages to Illegal Immigrants in Automobile Accident Cases.

With DEMs
This bill prohibits courts from awarding general damages or past and future wages to illegal aliens in a civil lawsuit arising from an automobile accident. However, the bill does not apply to claims made under an uninsured or underinsured motorist policy where the unauthorized alien is a named insured. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 450House 20251x

Protecting Against Frivolous Personal Injury Litigation by Overruling the "Housley Presumption".

With DEMs
This bill overrules the "Housley Presumption" in personal injury cases, which established a rebuttable presumption that an injury was caused by an accident if the plaintiff had no prior history of the condition. This bill provides that the absence of a prior illness, injury, or condition does not create a presumption that a condition was caused by the act that is the basis of the lawsuit. This bill helps protect against frivolous litigation that may be advanced by deviant plaintiffs'' attorneys. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 454House 20251x

Increasing Government Dependency by Expanding the Medicaid Welfare Program to Now Cover Doula Services.

Against DEMs
This bill expands coverage under Medicaid (government-provided healthcare) by requiring plans that cover maternity services to also provide coverage for doula services before, during, and after childbirth. This includes at least five prenatal visits, three postpartum visits, and assistance during labor and birth. This bill further traps individuals into government dependency by growing benefits under the government welfare state. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 483House 20251x

Threatening Innovation by Imposing Overreaching Regulations on Virtual Currency Kiosks.

Against DEMs
This bill imposes regulations on virtual currency kiosks (e.g., Bitcoin ATMs), such as a daily transaction limit of $3,000 per user, mandating a 72-hour waiting or cancellation window for transactions, and requiring certain signage. The bill also requires kiosk operators to utilize blockchain analytics tools to help prevent fraud, and maintain "anti-fraud" and "Enhanced Due Diligence" policies. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 507House 20251x

Expanding Cronyism and Government Central Planning Through Grants to Incentivize Businesses to Pay Above Average Wages and Provide Health Insurance.

Against DEMs
This bill establishes the High Impact Job Program to provide grants to incentivize businesses to pay above-average wages and provide health insurance. The grants are equal to a percentage of annualized wages, depending on the wage levels in the project''s location, with higher percentages for higher wages. The bill excludes certain industries, such as gaming, retail sales, and automotive rental and leasing. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 509House 20251x

Enriching Cosmetology Schools and Restricting Competition by Forcing Individuals Who Provide "Alternative Hair Design" to Undergo 500 Hours of Instruction and Examination.

Against DEMs
This bill establishes new regulations for alternative hair design and natural hair braiding in the state. The bill requires any person who wishes to provide alternative hair design to obtain a certificate of registration by completing at least 500 hours of instruction. A permit is also required to provide natural hair braiding, which requires passing an examination and completing an instructional video on infection control and techniques to prevent traction alopecia. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 513 (House Version)House 20251x

Expanding Borrowing and Lending Opportunities by Establishing an Alternative Consumer Installment Loan Framework.

With DEMs
This bill enacts the "Louisiana Consumer Alternative Installment Loan Act," which allows lenders to offer precomputed small consumer loans ($5,500 or less) at an interest rate of up to 59%, adjusted annually for inflation. This is an alternative to the existing tiered maximum interest rates and origination fees for consumer loans. The bill prohibits lenders from conditioning loans on specific repayment methods, such as preauthorized electronic transfers or post-dated checks. While the bill does contain some negative regulatory provisions, the bill will help expand borrowing and lending opportunities, especially during periods of high inflation. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 554House 20251x

Strengthening Election Integrity by Prohibiting the Issuance of Driver''s Licenses or ID Cards to Illegal Immigrants.

With DEMs
This bill prohibits the Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) from issuing a driver''s license or identification card to illegal immigrants. Lawfully-present non-U.S. citizens may receive a driver''s license or identification card, which must include a restriction code. Additionally, OMV must send these individuals a notice stating that noncitizens are prohibited by state law from registering to vote or voting in Louisiana, with violations constituting a felony punishable by up to 2 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,000. The OMV is also required to maintain records of who receives the notice and provide that data monthly to the Secretary of State for voter list maintenance. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 560House 20251x

Strengthening Government Integrity by Increasing the Ability to Combat Fraud Within the Medicaid Welfare Program.

With DEMs
This bill contains several provisions designed to improve the state''s ability to combat Medicaid and other medical assistance program fraud. Most notably, the bill specifies that for such offenses, "proof of specific intent to defraud" is not required. The bill also broadens the scope of violations that constitute medical assistance fraud offenses. For example, the bill adds knowingly making a claim under a medical assistance program for products or services that were not approved or prescribed by a healthcare provider. This bill improves the ability to combat Medicaid fraud, which, combined with Medicare fraud, costs taxpayers across the nation more than $100 billion annually. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 570House 20251x

Expanding Government Overreach by Requiring Age Verification for All App Store Users.

Against DEMs
This bill requires app stores to verify the age of any person making an account, and requires parental consent for minors to download an app or make a purchase. While the intent of this bill is noble, it is the role of parents - not politicians - to oversee their children''s app usage. Additionally, the age verification requirements for all users weaken privacy rights, while also placing unnecessary burdens on social media companies and users. This bill expands the nanny state by imposing new regulations on private companies. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 575House 20251x

Supporting Life by Expanding Legal Liability for Out-of-State Abortion Providers.

With DEMs
This bill enacts the "Justice for Victims of Abortion Drug Dealers Act," which expands liability for out-of-state abortion providers who perform an abortion, to also include an individual or entity that "substantially facilitates an abortion." Under this bill, this includes administering, prescribing, or distributing abortion drugs. The bill also extends the statute of limitations for bringing a civil case, from 3 to 5 years, and allows courts to award statutory damages of at least $100,000, special and general damages, and exemplary damages. All abortions are tragedies and every child deserves the right to life. Support.
HB 578House 20251x

Worsening Cronyism by Expanding Sales and Use Tax Exemptions and Directing Additional Funding to Promote Tourism.

Against DEMs
This bill contains several provisions related to sales and use taxes. Most notably, the bill expands exemptions from these taxes to include purchases by contractors and subcontractors for public construction contracts, lease or rental of motor vehicles by dealers to customers under a warranty agreement or at no cost if the warranty has expired, and purchases of equipment by certain radiation therapy treatment centers. Finally, the bill increases the amount of funds dedicated to promoting tourism, from .01% to 3% of the state''s additional sales and use tax. All state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. Additionally, it is not the proper role of government to fund tourism promotion and taxpayer funds should not be utilized to advance government-favored industries. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 590House 20251x

Strengthening Democracy by Prohibiting the Usage of Private Funds for Election Administration and Contributions from Foreign Governments and Nationals to Influence Elections.

With DEMs
This bill prohibits nongovernmental groups and foreign governments or foreign nationals from funding the administration of election operations. Additionally, funds or services donated by a foreign government or foreign national may not be used to advocate for or against a ballot measure, candidate, or party. This is in response to the over $400 million in "Zuckerbucks" and other outside funds that were provided to influence elections across the nation. The private funding of election operations introduces serious concerns over the integrity and fairness of election outcomes. Maintaining strong safeguards against voter fraud is critical aspects of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation''s constitutional republic. Furthermore, this bill helps strengthen democracy and ensure American elections remain free from foreign interference. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 595House 20251x

Growing Government Dependency by Expanding the Medicaid Welfare Program under TEFRA to Include Sickle Cell Anemia Treatment for Minors.

Against DEMs
This bill expands Medicaid (government-provided healthcare) under the federal "Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act" (TEFRA) option. The bill specifies that a minor 18 or under may meet the "level of care" eligibility requirement if, during the previous 12 months, the minor has gone for emergency treatment at a hospital more than once per month, and the hospital use is necessary to stabilize sickle cell anemia. This bill further traps individuals into government dependency by growing benefits under the government welfare state. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 600House 20251x

Lowering Energy Production Costs by Reducing the Oil Severance Tax for Certain Wells.

With DEMs
This bill reduces the severance tax rate for oil produced from wells completed on or after July 1, 2025 to 6.5% (previously 12.5%). Additionally, the bill modifies the tax rates for limited-production wells, such as incapable wells and inactive wells, at fixed percentages rather than a percentage of the full severance tax rate. All state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. While taxes should be reduced across all industries, this bill is a step in the right direction. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 639House 20251x

Hiking Taxes on Sports Wagering to Provide Funds to Universities for Student-Athlete Benefits.

Against DEMs
This bill increases the tax rate on online sports wagering, from 15% to 21.5%, and directs 25% of the revenue to the newly established "Supporting Programs, Opportunities, Resources, and Teams Fund," which provides funds to certain public universities to benefit student-athletes. This includes benefits such as scholarships, medical coverage, and facility enhancements. Additionally, 3% of the revenue is directed to the Louisiana Postsecondary Inclusive Education Fund. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 64House 20251x

Combatting Federal Overreach by Expanding the Authority of the Attorney General to Protect State Sovereignty.

With DEMs
This bill expands the authority of the Attorney General to represent the state, state agencies, and officials in legal matters involving the federal government. Additionally, the bill prohibits the state and local governments from entering into a federal court judgement of consent that establishes federal oversight for more than 60 days without the approval of the Governor and Attorney General. The state and local governments are also required to notify the Governor and Attorney General upon receipt of any notices from the federal government or parties to litigation, which would impose federal court jurisdiction. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 665House 20251x

Worsening Cronyism by Extending a Tax Credit for Investments in Government-Favored Businesses.

With DEMs
This bill extends the "Angel Investor Tax Credit Program," which provides income tax credits for investments in certain businesses, to June 30, 2026. The bill also modifies eligibility to require businesses be "high-growth" and primarily engaged in specific industries, such as logistics, aerospace and defense, or agribusiness. The bill also increases reporting requirements for participating businesses. All state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. Furthermore, the free market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is best equipped to drive economic growth. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 685House 20251x

Protecting Taxpayer Funds from Being Utilized for Politicized "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion" (DEI) Programs at Government Agencies and Public Colleges and Universities.

With DEMs
This bill prohibits state agencies, departments, and offices, and public colleges and universities from operating any Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Office or asking prospective students or job applicants to provide diversity statements. Public colleges and universities are also prohibited from giving preferential treatment in admissions, state-supported financial aid, or services or benefits, based on factors such as race, sex, or gender identity. Finally, public colleges and universities are prohibited from requiring "DEI-related instructional content" in undergraduate courses, except in certain programs and departments. This measure helps protect taxpayer funds from being utilized to promote politicized DEI efforts which sow division amongst Americans and are intended to further grow the role of government. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 686House 20251x

Strengthening Government Integrity by Requiring Additional Disclosures for Lobbyists Representing U.S. Foreign Adversaries and Corporations.

With DEMs
This bill establishes new lobbying disclosure requirements for individuals representing U.S. foreign adversaries (China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, Venezuela) or foreign corporations. The law requires such lobbyists to disclose certain information to the Louisiana Board of Ethics, including the name of the foreign entity represented, a description of its business activities, and the matters on which the lobbyist intends to engage. The Board of Ethics is required to establish a publicly accessible database containing these disclosures. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 692House 20251x

Promoting American Energy Dominance by Prioritizing Domestic Energy Sources.

With DEMs
This bill directs the Department of Energy and Natural Resources "to prioritize affordable, reliable, and clean energy security." Under the bill, this includes prioritizing U.S.-produced energy sources, minimizing reliance on foreign nations for critical materials or manufacturing, and ensuring sufficient renewable energy sources, which must include energy generated by hydrocarbons. Additionally, the bill clarifies that nuclear energy and natural gas are included in the definition of "green energy" if they meet federal air quality standards, for purposes of state funding of clean or green energy initiatives. Low-cost energy is essential to growing the economy and improving the quality of life for all Americans. With renewable energy only accounting for about 20 percent of the U.S. energy supply, the country must adopt an "all of the above" approach to energy production that balances environmental concerns with the need to provide Americans with the lowest possible energy costs. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 696House 20251x

Hiking Energy Costs by Imposing Overreaching Regulations on Carbon Dioxide Pipelines and Injection.

Against DEMs
The bill requires "an emergency and remedial response plan" before transporting carbon dioxide using a pipeline. The bill also requires operators of carbon dioxide injection sites to offer annual training exercises. Additionally, the bill requires "a remediation plan for ground water contamination" before beginning carbon dioxide injection. Operators also must first obtain financial security or insurance payable to public water systems. This is in addition to financial security required by the Department of Energy and Natural Resources. If ground water is contaminated, the operator must provide an alternative water source of drinking water within 24 hours. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 97House 20251x

Expanding Cronyism and Government Central Planning Powers by Creating an Economic and Cultural District in Jeanerette which can Impose Additional Taxes and Issue Bonds.

Against DEMs
This bill establishes the "Railroad Avenue Historic Cultural Economic District" in the city of Jeanerette for purposes such as economic development and to "provide for cultural enrichment and preservation." The bill allows the district to acquire property, impose a sales and use tax of up to 1% (if approved by voters), utilize tax increment financing, and issue bonds (debt) to finance projects. It is not the proper role of government to compete in the lending industry. Furthermore, the free market - not central planning tax schemes by bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to direct investment to the most promising initiatives and regions of the state. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
SB 100House 20251x

Discouraging Illegal Immigration by Requiring State Agencies to Determine and Report the Immigration Status of State Services and Benefits Recipients.

With DEMs
This bill enacts the "State Services and Benefits Legal Status and Accountability Act," which requires several state agencies to collect and report data on the immigration status of individuals receiving state services and benefits. This includes services from departments such as the Department of Health, Department of Education, Department of Children and Family Services, and higher education institutions. The bill requires agencies to determine the legal status of individuals, calculate the total dollar value of services provided to undocumented individuals and unaccompanied alien children, and submit annual reports containing this information, which must be publicly accessible. Lawmakers must eliminate all incentives that may encourage illegal immigration, including taxpayer-funded benefits surrounding housing, education, and other welfare programs. Support is the Limited Government Position.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rep. Michael Melerine's voting record?

Rep. Michael Melerine (R-LA-6) earned a 61% National Democrat Platform score for 2025, showing moderate alignment with Democratic Party Platform principles. Michael Melerine voted on 67 of the 75 substantive bills scored by Dem Platform in 2025. Michael Melerine represents the 6th District in the Louisiana House of Representatives.

How aligned is Michael Melerine with Democratic Party Platform principles?

Michael Melerine earned a 61% National Democrat Platform score in 2025, showing moderate alignment with Democratic Party Platform principles.

What is Michael Melerine's Dem Platform score?

Michael Melerine has a 61% Dem Platform score for 2025.

Where does Michael Melerine serve?

Rep. Michael Melerine (R-LA-6) represents the 6th District in the Louisiana House of Representatives as a Republican.

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