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Robert “Bob” Owen — Republican State Senator for Louisiana District 1 (official headshot)

Robert “Bob” Owen Voting Record & Scorecard | National Democrat Platform

LA Senator

District: 1 • Republican

2025 DEM Alignment:

56.36%

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Voting Alignment with DEM Platform – by Chapter

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Sen. Robert “Bob” Owen (R-LA-1) earned a 56% National Democrat Platform score for 2025, showing moderate alignment with Democratic Party Platform principles. Robert “Bob” Owen voted on 55 of the 66 substantive bills scored by Dem Platform in 2025. Robert “Bob” Owen represents the 1st District in the Louisiana State Senate.

Title

Lawmaker Position

HB 119Senate 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 125Senate 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 126Senate 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 148Senate 20251x

Increasing Government Interference in the Insurance Industry by Expanding the Ability of the Commissioner of Insurance to Disapprove Rates.

With DEMs
This bill allows the Commissioner of Insurance to disapprove insurance rates deemed "excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory." Previously, this authority was limited to disapproving rates for being "inadequate or unfairly discriminatory" in a competitive market or "excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory" in a noncompetitive market. The bill also requires insurance companies renewing homeowners'' or private passenger motor vehicle policies to display the prior premium amount alongside the renewal premium. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 153Senate 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 208Senate 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 216Senate 20251x

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

With 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 264Senate 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 289Senate 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 (Senate Version)Senate 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 297Senate 20251x

Reducing Government Accountability by Allowing the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism to Exceed the Non-Budgeted Project Expenditure Limit.

Against DEMs
This bill allows the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism to exceed the $250,000 project limit for building and facility repairs, renovation, or construction without such projects being included in the capital outlay budget. Under the bill, the department instead may spend up to $1 million per project, subject to approval by the Lieutenant Governor, and may obtain a short-term loan of up to 1 year to fund such projects. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 356Senate 20251x

Expanding Consumer Choice by Allowing Homeowners Insurance Companies to Offer Policies Based on "Stated Value" Rather than Solely Market Value.

With DEMs
This bill enacts the "Stated Value Homeowner''s Policy Act," which allows homeowners insurance companies to offer "stated value policies." Under this model, a homeowner may declare a specified amount of coverage for their residential property, rather than solely the market value, and insurance companies may choose to honor the stated value instead. Insurance companies that offer this option must prominently disclose its availability in policy proposals, agreements, and renewals. The bill requires certain disclosure language be provided to homeowners related to such policies, and sets a minimum policy value for such policies. Finally, the bill requires the Commissioner of Insurance to develop materials for consumers on the risks, disadvantages, and limitations of such policies. While this bill contains some negative provisions regulating stated value policies, the bill expands consumer choice in the homeowners insurance marketplace. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 371Senate 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 393Senate 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 407Senate 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 408Senate 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 425Senate 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. Support.
HB 434Senate 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 436Senate 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 436 (Luneau Amd. 2121)Senate 20251x

Reducing Automotive Insurance Availability by Mandating a 2% Reduction in Rates.

With DEMs
The Luneau amendment #2121 to a bill prohibiting courts from awarding illegal aliens general damages or past and future wages in a civil lawsuit arising from an automobile accident. The amendment requires all automotive insurance companies to reduce the combined rates for bodily injury liability and for property damage by at least 2%. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 450Senate 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 454Senate 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 483Senate 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 513 (Senate Version)Senate 20251x

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

Against 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 519Senate 20251x

Imposing an Overreaching Ban on Mobile Device Usage While Driving.

Against DEMs
This bill prohibits drivers from holding or manually using wireless telecommunications devices, such as smartphones, while operating a motor vehicle on public roads, unless the vehicle is stationary. The bill contains exceptions for autonomous vehicles, use of a device for emergency purposes, reporting a crime, or operating a hands-free GPS system. Violations carry a fine of between $100-$250, with the fine doubled if the violation was committed at the time of a crash. Law enforcement officers are required to only issue warnings for violations before January 1, 2026. Finally, the law preempts local ordinances on this matter. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 554Senate 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 560Senate 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 564Senate 20251x

Forcing Taxpayers to Fund Conservation Projects on Private Property Through the New "Louisiana Conservation Incentive Program".

Against DEMs
This bill establishes the "Louisiana Conservation Incentive Program" within the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to provide funds to private property owners to enhance wildlife habitats and manage native species. The private sector is best equipped to manage and maximize land utilization - including for conservation purposes. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
HB 570Senate 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 575Senate 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 578Senate 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 600Senate 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. Support is the Limited Government Position.
HB 639Senate 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 64Senate 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 665Senate 20251x

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

Against 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 686Senate 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 692Senate 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 97Senate 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 109Senate 20251x

Strengthening Democracy by Prohibiting the Use of Contributions from Foreign Governments and Nationals to Influence Elections.

With DEMs
This bill amends the state Constitution to prohibit the use of funds or services donated by a foreign government or foreign national to advocate for or against a ballot measure, candidate, or party. This amendment helps strengthen democracy and ensure American elections remain free from foreign interference. Support is the Limited Government Position.
SB 123Senate 20251x

Shifting Tax Burdens Through an Income Tax Credit for Donations to Poorly-Performing Schools.

Against DEMs
This bill creates an income tax credit equal to 95% of donations to public schools that receive a "D" or "F" rating under the state accountability system. Schools must use the funds for purposes such as instructional materials, tutoring, childcare, or health services. The program is capped at $1 million in credits per year, and sunsets after the 2027 tax year. It is a necessary role for government to provide quality K-12 education - ideally through school choice. However, rather than shifting tax burdens to provide additional funds for poorly-performing schools, lawmakers should instead reduce unnecessary and wasteful spending elsewhere to be used for this purpose. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
SB 129Senate 20251x

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

Against DEMs
This bill requires most health insurance plans offered in the state to provide coverage for proton therapy or proton beam therapy when recommended for cancer treatment by the American Society for Radiation Oncology practice guidelines. 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.
SB 134Senate 20251x

Advancing Frivolous Litigation by Expanding the Scope of the State''s Medical Malpractice Laws to Include Administrative and Managerial Work.

Against DEMs
This bill broadens the scope of "health care" for purposes of state health care and medical malpractice laws to include all acts associated with medical treatment, encompassing clinical, administrative, and managerial functions. The definition of "health care provider" is expanded to cover a wider range of entities and individuals, such as tissue banks, dieticians, and nutritionists. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of "malpractice" to include not only clinical care, but also necessary "administrative or managerial" acts. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
SB 15Senate 20251x

Strengthening Public Safety by Expanding Criminal Offenses for Interfering with Federal Immigration Enforcement.

With DEMs
This bill expands the offense of obstruction of justice to include also include obstructing civil immigration proceedings and official acts of government officials. The offense is also expanded to include interfering with, or thwarting, federal immigration enforcement. Violations involving civil immigration enforcement carry a sentence of up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $5,000. The bill also expands the offense of malfeasance in office to include releasing an individual from state or local custody that the law enforcement agency knows is an illegal immigrant, without first notifying United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The offense is also expanded to include interfering with, or thwarting, federal immigration enforcement, and refusing a federal request for cooperation related to federal immigration enforcement. Support is the Limited Government Position.
SB 156Senate 20251x

Supporting Life by Strengthening Legal Protections for In Vitro Fertilized Embryos.

With DEMs
This bill expands legal protections for in vitro fertilized (IVF) embryos. The bill provides decision-making authority over viable IVF embryos is held by the intended parent(s), not the facility of physician. Additionally, the bill establishes that IVF embryos have the capacity to sue and be sued, and are a separate entity from the facility where they are stored. The bill also provides criminal liability protection for healthcare providers and facilities involved in the IVF process, except for cases of criminal negligence or intent. Support.
SB 160Senate 20251x

Expanding Transportation Options by Allowing Public School Districts to Contract with Rideshare Companies for Student Transportation.

With DEMs
This bill authorizes local public school districts to contract with transportation network companies (TNCs), such as Uber and Lyft, to provide student transportation to and from school and school-related activities. Under the bill, TNC drivers must be at least 21 years old, possess a valid Louisiana driver''s license for at least three years, undergo a background check, and complete child safety education. Additionally, the bill requires that the vehicles used must have real-time GPS tracking and meet certain safety standards, such as commercial automotive insurance coverage and annual inspections. Support is the Limited Government Position.
SB 186Senate 20251x

Worsening Cronyism by Expanding the Insurance Premium Tax Credit for Investment in Businesses in Low-Income Communities.

Against DEMs
This bill expands the premium tax credit program for investments in qualified low-income community businesses. The bill increases the cap on eligible investment per business to $10 million (previously $5 million) for investments made on or after August 1, 2025. Additionally, the bill authorizes up to $150 million in qualified equity investment authority beginning August 1, 2025, which the bill''s fiscal note states "provides an additional $82.5" million in premium tax credits. 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.
SB 189Senate 20251x

Growing Government Overreach by Authorizing Local "Land Banks" to Acquire and Rehabilitate Blighted Properties.

Against DEMs
This bill enacts the "State Land Banking Authority Act," which allows localities to establish land bank authorities to acquire, rehabilitate, and sell abandoned or dilapidated properties. These authorities may issue bonds (debt) to finance projects and are exempt from state and local taxes on properties and activities. Authorities are not permitted to use eminent domain to seize properties. Instead of growing government overreach, lawmakers should work to incentivize the private sector to rehabilitate properties by reducing excessive building regulations, reforming zoning laws, and cutting crime in communities. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
SB 201Senate 20251x

Fueling Wasteful and Out-Of-Control Spending by Expanding the "Major Events Incentive Program" and Establishing an Additional Incentive Program.

Against DEMs
This bill expands the definition of a "qualified major event" under the "Major Events Incentive Program" to include events such as the State Fair of Louisiana, Humor and Harmony Weekend, Boots on the Bayou music festival, and certain boat racing and rodeo events. The bill caps financial commitments to the events at the cost to recruit, solicit, or acquire the event, or the projected economic impact, whichever is greater. The bill also establishes the "Events Incentive Program" to provide grants to localities, tourism commissions, nonprofits, and other organizations for the cost of planning, marketing, and conducting events that are not a "qualified major event." Grants are capped at 25% of an event''s cost, up to a maximum of $250,000, and events must have a minimum economic impact of at least $350,000. Grants may be used for applying or bidding for selection, or planning, marketing, or conducting the event. The free market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to select the most desired events and provide the necessary funding (via tickets and other user fees). 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.
SB 231Senate 20251x

Protecting Against Higher Consumer Costs by Limiting Awards of Medical Expenses in Personal Injury Litigation to Actual Expenses Paid.

With DEMs
This bill modifies existing state law on recovery of medical expenses in civil actions. The bill provides that in cases where a claimant''s medical expenses have been paid, in whole or in part, by a health insurance company, Medicaid, or Medicare to a contracted healthcare provider, the claimant''s recovery is limited to the amount actually paid to the provider by the insurer or Medicare, and any applicable cost-sharing amounts paid or owed by the claimant, rather than the amount billed. This bill helps protect against higher consumer costs by reducing the risk faced by businesses in litigation and discouraging frivolous litigation. Support is the Limited Government Position.
SB 235Senate 20251x

Shifting Tax Burdens by Establishing an Income Tax Credit for Homeowner''s Insurance Premiums.

Against DEMs
This bill establishes an income tax credit for homeowner''s insurance premiums, equal to the amount paid in premiums, up to $2,000. The credit is refundable for individuals with an income of $25,000 or less, and may be carried forward for up to 5 years for individuals with an income of over $25,000. The maximum annual amount of credits is $10 million. All state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. This bill merely shifts tax burdens onto renters. Oppose is the Limited Government Position.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sen. Robert “Bob” Owen's voting record?

Sen. Robert “Bob” Owen (R-LA-1) earned a 56% National Democrat Platform score for 2025, showing moderate alignment with Democratic Party Platform principles. Robert “Bob” Owen voted on 55 of the 66 substantive bills scored by Dem Platform in 2025. Robert “Bob” Owen represents the 1st District in the Louisiana State Senate.

How aligned is Robert “Bob” Owen with Democratic Party Platform principles?

Robert “Bob” Owen earned a 56% National Democrat Platform score in 2025, showing moderate alignment with Democratic Party Platform principles.

What is Robert “Bob” Owen's Dem Platform score?

Robert “Bob” Owen has a 56% Dem Platform score for 2025.

Where does Robert “Bob” Owen serve?

Sen. Robert “Bob” Owen (R-LA-1) represents the 1st District in the Louisiana State Senate as a Republican.

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