Priscilla Gonzalez

Criminal Justice / Public Safety

Racial profiling and police brutality are critical issues that erode trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Implementing policies that mandate de-escalation training, body cameras, and community policing can help build trust and reduce incidents of excessive force. Furthermore, establishing independent oversight bodies to investigate police misconduct can ensure accountability and transparency. Learn more

Reentry programs are crucial in helping former inmates transition back into their communities. These programs provide support in finding employment, securing housing, and accessing necessary services. By supporting reentry initiatives, we can reduce recidivism rates and help former offenders become contributing members of society. Additionally, removing barriers to employment and voting rights for ex-offenders can facilitate their reintegration and civic participation. Learn more

Reforming the juvenile justice system is another critical aspect of comprehensive criminal justice reform. Children and teenagers should not be subjected to the same punitive measures as adults. Instead, the focus should be on rehabilitation and education. Implementing restorative justice practices and providing support services for at-risk youth can prevent them from entering the criminal justice system in the first place. Learn more

One of the most significant steps we can take is to decriminalize non-violent offenses, particularly drug-related crimes. The war on drugs has been a colossal failure, leading to mass incarceration without addressing the root causes of addiction and substance abuse. Shifting our approach from criminalization to treatment can help individuals recover and reintegrate into society, reducing recidivism and improving public health. Learn more

The ultimate goal of the criminal justice system should be to rehabilitate offenders and prepare them for successful reentry into society. Unfortunately, many prisons lack the resources and programs necessary to achieve this goal. Investing in education, vocational training, and mental health services within the prison system can equip inmates with the skills they need to lead productive lives upon release. Learn more

The school-to-prison pipeline is a disturbing trend where disciplinary policies in schools disproportionately affect minority students, leading to their involvement in the criminal justice system. Reforming school discipline policies to focus on restorative practices rather than punitive measures can help keep students in school and out of the criminal justice system. Learn more

Harsh sentencing laws, such as mandatory minimums and three-strikes laws, have led to overcrowded prisons and devastated families and communities. These laws often do not consider the individual circumstances of each case and disproportionately affect minority populations. Reforming sentencing laws to allow for judicial discretion and alternative sentencing can help reduce prison populations and ensure fairer outcomes. Learn more

Economy

Support Economic Policies: Advocate for federal policies that stimulate economic growth, such as tax incentives for businesses, infrastructure development, and job creation programs. Economic growth can increase the state’s revenue base, allowing for lower state taxes. Infrastructure Investment: Push for federal infrastructure projects in Louisiana, which can create jobs and boost the state economy. Learn more

Encouraging research and development activities through partnerships between universities, research institutions, and private industry can drive innovation and technology transfer. Providing support for research grants, technology commercialization programs, and industry-university collaborations accelerates the development of new products and technologies. Learn more

To attract businesses and investments in key sectors identified for economic diversification, targeted economic incentives, tax credits, and grants can be offered. These incentives may include tax breaks for job creation, investment tax credits, and customized incentive packages for companies committing to long-term growth and expansion in Louisiana. Learn more

Work with State Legislators: Collaborate with state lawmakers to design policies that reduce state income tax rates. She can use her influence and resources to support state-level initiatives. Engage with Local Leaders: Build coalitions with local government officials, business leaders, and community organizations to develop comprehensive tax reduction strategies. Learn more

Expanding international trade and export opportunities is another avenue for economic growth. By promoting trade missions, export assistance programs, and foreign investment attraction initiatives, Louisiana can increase access to global markets for its goods and services. Cultivating partnerships with international markets, trade organizations, and foreign governments is essential for facilitating trade and investment. Learn more

Supporting entrepreneurship and innovation is vital for fostering a dynamic economic ecosystem. Creating programs and incentives to assist startups and small businesses, including access to capital and business incubators, can stimulate innovation and the commercialization of new ideas and technologies. Additionally, investing in workforce development programs and education initiatives ensures that residents have the skills and training needed for jobs in emerging industries. Learn more

Promote Investment: Use her platform to attract business investments to Louisiana. Increased business activity can expand the tax base, providing the state with more revenue and potentially allowing for lower income taxes. Support Innovation and Technology: Advocate for federal support in sectors like technology and innovation, which can drive economic growth and increase state revenues. Learn more

Education

I will advocate for federal grant programs that provide financial help for educational reforms. This involves pushing for funding to increase teacher wages and improve school resources. By participating in these initiatives, we may provide additional financial support to our schools and staff. In this struggle, it is critical to form a united front. I plan to establish a coalition of parents, educators, and community leaders to demand greater remuneration for our teachers. Together, our voices will be louder and more difficult to ignore, demonstrating that our community strongly supports our educators. Learn more

While the role as a Congressman does not provide direct authority to enforce teacher compensation raises, I am dedicated to using all of my office’s resources to support this important cause and collaborate with those who can make the necessary adjustments. Our society relies heavily on teachers. They shape the next generation of leaders, innovators, and citizens. Yet they are frequently underpaid and underestimated. This has to be changed. To solve this issue, I would work relentlessly to enhance federal education spending while also ensuring that additional resources are available at the state level to support meaningful wage hikes for our teachers. By pushing for these funds, we can help reduce some of our educators’ financial responsibilities and provide them with the salary they deserve. Strong partnerships with state legislators, municipal politicians, and the Louisiana Department of Education are essential. We can build and implement strong initiatives to increase teacher salaries if we pool our resources. These collaborations will enable us to successfully advocate for our teachers and ensure that their needs are prioritized. Learn more

Implementing comprehensive K-12 education reforms is essential for improving student outcomes, closing achievement gaps, and increasing graduation rates. This may involve adopting rigorous academic standards, enhancing teacher training and professional development, and providing support for struggling schools and students. By investing in K–12 education, Louisiana can better prepare students for success in college, careers, and civic life. Learn more

Expanding access to high-quality early childhood education programs, including pre-kindergarten and early intervention services, is crucial for ensuring that all children receive a strong foundation for future learning and success. Investing in early childhood education helps narrow achievement gaps, promotes school readiness, and sets the stage for lifelong learning. Learn more

Providing chances for demanding courses, dual enrollment programs, and job exploration activities is necessary to increase students’ college and career ready levels. Expanding access to college counseling, financial aid, and support services can help students make the transition from high school to higher education or the workforce. By fostering college and career preparedness, Louisiana can help students pursue higher education and find well-paying employment in booming industries. Learn more

Expanding access to CTE programs is crucial for giving students hands-on experience and industry-recognized credentials in high-demand industries like healthcare, information technology, advanced manufacturing, and skilled trades. Building bridges between schools, employers, and community colleges can assist CTE programs fit with workforce needs and prepare students for future professions. Learn more

Environment / Energy

Including local people in outreach, education, and participation initiatives related to coastal management and restoration might help them feel more responsible for the resources along the coast. Long-term success depends on giving locals the tools they need to actively safeguard and preserve their coastal environment. Learn more

To effectively implement solutions for coastal erosion and land loss, collaboration among government agencies, nonprofit organizations, academic institutions, and commercial players is essential. Planning, carrying out, and maintaining coastal restoration and preservation initiatives require sufficient money from federal, state, and municipal sources. Learn more

The loss of priceless coastal land can be reduced by promoting sustainable land use practices like smart growth planning, coastal setback limits, and land use zoning rules. Communities can lessen the effects of land loss by encouraging appropriate development and minimizing actions that lead to erosion. Learn more

Levees, seawalls, and floodgates are examples of coastal protection infrastructure that can be built and maintained to assist protect coastal settlements from erosion and storm surge. Protecting coastal areas and reducing land loss require investments in resilient infrastructure that can resist the effects of climate change. Learn more

In order to maintain natural barriers against erosion and land loss, it is imperative that existing wetlands be preserved and managed. Enacting laws that shield wetlands from pollution and development can contribute to the preservation of these important ecosystems and the protective roles they play. Learn more

Coastal landmasses can be rebuilt and protected by funding extensive coastal restoration initiatives like shoreline stabilization, barrier island repair, and marsh formation. These initiatives seek to lessen the effects of erosion and storm surges while recreating ecosystems that offer essential habitats for species. They also strive to replicate natural processes. Learn more

Healthcare

I will push for the growth of telehealth services, especially in underserved and rural areas. Women who would otherwise experience obstacles in receiving prenatal and postnatal care can receive vital treatment through telehealth. Furthermore, I will back programs that encourage medical professionals to work in underprivileged communities, guaranteeing that more women will have access to high-quality treatment nearby. Services for support are essential for new moms and their babies. I will fight for more money and resources to support initiatives that offer home visits by medical professionals, lactation consultations, and mental health support. These programs can greatly enhance health outcomes and give newly formed families the much-needed support they require. Learn more

I’ll push for better data gathering and processing to track the health of moms and their babies. This information is critical for seeing patterns, gauging the effectiveness of initiatives, and formulating wise policy choices. We can guarantee the application of best practices and the steady development of care by encouraging continual quality improvement in healthcare institutions. In conclusion, a congresswoman can still have a positive impact on state healthcare systems even though they may not have direct authority over them. There are several ways to do this. The health and well-being of mothers and infants in Louisiana can be significantly improved by securing funding, supporting pertinent legislation, improving access to care, addressing disparities, advocating for support services, increasing public awareness, and ensuring rigorous monitoring and evaluation. Learn more

Louisiana should continue to expand Medicaid eligibility to help more low-income people and families. Expanding Medicaid improves uninsured residents’ access to healthcare services while lowering uncompensated care costs for hospitals and providers. Learn more

Invest in healthcare workforce development programs to help solve the shortage of primary care physicians, nurses, and other healthcare workers, especially in rural and underserved areas. This includes funding scholarships, loan payback plans, and training initiatives to attract and retain healthcare providers in high-need areas. Learn more

Prioritize efforts to reduce health disparities and inequities across racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. This could include targeted interventions, community-based efforts, and policy reforms aiming at eliminating inequities in access to care, health outcomes, and healthcare quality. Learn more

Implement initiatives to reduce prescription drug costs and enhance affordability for residents, such as investigating drug pricing transparency measures, encouraging generic drug use, and expanding access to lower-cost alternatives including biosimilars and generic copies of brand-name drugs. Learn more

Strengthen and promote Louisiana’s health insurance marketplace to increase individual and family access to affordable health insurance coverage. This involves investing in outreach and enrollment campaigns to inform residents about their coverage alternatives and financial aid available through the marketplace. Learn more

I’ll aggressively back and co-sponsor legislation that aims to enhance the health outcomes for mothers and newborns. These include measures to support comprehensive maternity care programs, improve assistance for rural healthcare, and increase the coverage of Medicaid for pregnant women. I may contribute to the development of a more encouraging atmosphere for moms and infants by advocating for laws that give priority to maternal and newborn health. Learn more

Implement methods to address socioeconomic determinants of health, such as poverty, housing instability, food insecurity, and a lack of mobility, which can all have an impact on healthcare access and results. This could entail working with neighborhood organizations, housing agencies, and social service providers to address the underlying social and economic problems that influence health. Learn more

Reintroducing legislation to address maternal death rates is an important step for legislators who want to improve maternal health outcomes. Congressmen can help reduce maternal mortality by reintroducing and campaigning for legislation targeted at improving access to healthcare services, addressing racial inequities, supporting maternal mental health, and encouraging evidence-based practices. If elected, I will commit to bringing forth legislation to lower our maternal mortality rate. Learn more

Expand telehealth services, particularly in rural and underserved areas, to improve healthcare access for populations who may suffer mobility challenges or live far away from healthcare institutions. This involves investing in telehealth infrastructure and paying providers for telehealth services on par with in-person consultations. Learn more

Invest in and expand the ability of community health centers and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) to deliver primary care, preventative care, and behavioral health services to underserved populations. These facilities serve an important role in enhancing access to care for low-income persons and communities. Learn more

Infrastructure / Transportation

Establishing conservation easements on sensitive lands, such as wetlands, floodplains, and wildlife habitats, can help protect them from development and assure their long-term preservation. Conservation easements are voluntary agreements between landowners, conservation organizations, or government agencies that limit future development while permitting suitable land uses like agriculture or recreation. Learn more

Creating comprehensive land use plans that establish a vision for future growth and development can aid in decision-making and encourage coordinated development throughout the area. These plans should take into account population trends, infrastructural demands, environmental resources, and community interests. Learn more

Engaging local residents, stakeholders, and community organizations in the land use planning process is essential for ensuring that plans reflect community priorities and values. Soliciting opinion through public meetings, seminars, surveys, and other forms of outreach can help establish consensus and support for land-use decisions. Learn more

Embracing smart growth principles such as compact development, mixed land use, and walkable communities can help promote long-term development patterns that limit sprawl, lower infrastructure costs, and improve quality of life. Smart growth policies prioritize the effective use of land, the protection of open space, and the development of dynamic, living communities. Learn more

Implementing zoning regulations that assign appropriate land uses to different locations can assist prevent incompatible development and safeguard sensitive environmental areas. Zoning rules can specify permissible uses, building densities, setbacks, and other development standards to ensure that new development is compatible with existing land uses and environmental circumstances. Learn more

Implementing transfer of development rights programs can help protect significant natural areas by allowing landowners to sell development rights from their properties to developers in specified receiving zones. TDR schemes incentivize landowners to protect property while allowing development in appropriate areas, encouraging both conservation and development goals. Learn more

Legislation

Support Federal Tax Reforms: Advocate for federal tax reforms that increase disposable income for Louisiana residents, reducing the need for high state taxes. Federal-State Partnerships: Promote partnerships between federal and state governments to enhance economic development and financial stability in Louisiana. Learn more

Taxes / Budget

Increase Federal Funding: Advocate for and secure federal funding for state programs and infrastructure projects. This can free up state resources, potentially allowing for lower state income taxes. Disaster Relief and Emergency Aid: Ensure Louisiana receives adequate federal aid during disasters or emergencies to prevent the state from raising taxes to cover recovery costs. Learn more

Inform Constituents: Educate constituents about federal programs and tax credits that can lower their overall tax burden, indirectly reducing the pressure on state income taxes. Advocate for Efficiency: Encourage the state government to adopt more efficient budgeting and spending practices, potentially leading to lower taxes. Learn more

Value-added taxes (VATs) and sales taxes are examples of consumption-based taxes that should be substituted for income taxes since they are less distortionary and promote economic growth. Consumption taxes can minimize the detrimental effects on investment and entrepreneurship while offering a steady and consistent source of income. Learn more

Enact comprehensive tax reform to lower compliance costs for both people and corporations, simplify the tax code, and expedite tax administration. This could entail removing special interest loopholes, combining taxes, and expanding the tax base to lessen dependency on specific revenue streams. Learn more

Reduced tax rates in all areas, such as corporation, sales, and income taxes, will increase Louisiana’s tax system’s competitiveness and draw in investment and economic expansion. Reduced tax rates have the potential to boost corporate investment, consumer spending, and employment growth. Learn more

Increase the size of the tax base by cutting back on or doing away with credits, deductions, and exemptions that disproportionately help small groups of people and special interests. In addition to ensuring that taxes are paid more evenly to all taxpayers, extending the tax base can help stabilize income sources and lower volatility. Learn more

Encourage fiscal restraint and accountability in public expenditure to guarantee that tax monies are utilized properly and efficiently to support citizens’ and businesses’ requirements. Cost-benefit analysis, performance-based budgeting, and transparency initiatives can all be used to find ways to reduce costs and boost the efficiency of public services. Learn more