Sen. Gatti Has Visited Every School in Dist. 36 Since His Own Days at Airline High, Sen

Louisiana Senate District 36 Capitol Report Bossier, Webster, Bienville & Claiborne Parishes

Sen. Ryan Gatti: Politicians Should Listen to People Family Values Champion HOMECOMINGS BOSSIER PARISH After 50 Town Halls, Airline High Sept. 27 vs. Natchitoches Sen. Gatti Says It’s Benton High Sept. 27 vs. Parkway No Secret Where Haughton High Oct. 4 vs. Benton Parkway High District 36 Stands Sept. 20 vs. Alexandria MINDEN — Sen. Ryan Gatti has Plain Dealing High just completed his 50th town hall Oct. 18 vs. Ringgold meeting in the past three years. He WEBSTER PARISH has held them in every part of the Glenbrook four parishes he represents in the Oct. 18 vs. Porter’s Chapel Louisiana Senate — Bossier, Web- Doyline High (Basketball) ster, Bienville, and Claiborne. None scheduled yet Social media, special interest Lakeside Jr-Sr High mailers and fake news outlets pro- Oct. 4 vs. Peabody Minden High vide a way for erroneous information Oct. 4 vs. B. T. Washington to spread quickly, The town hall puts North Webster High those lies to rest. Oct. 11 vs. Bossier Sen. Gatti says politicians really CLAIBORNE PARISH should take the time to listen to the Haynesville Jr-Sr High people they represent. They might Oct. 11 vs. Arcadia vote differently, he said. “It’s no se- Homer High cret where the people in Senate Dis- Oct. 11 vs. Ringgold trict 36 stand! We’re conservative, BIENVILLE PARISH God-fearing, honest, hard-working Castor High (Basketball) Nov. 15 Americans. We love this country and Ringgold High SEN. RYAN GATTI gave a passionate speech before the Louisiana Senate in favor of our flag. We stand for the right to life, Nov. 1 vs. Arcadia the Pro-Life “Love Life” constitutional amendment. An elder statesman said “You could the 2nd Amendment, smaller govern- Saline High (Basketball) have heard a pin drop. Everyone in the chamber was silent. It’s the only speech I’ve ment, low taxes, balanced budgets, Jan. 17 vs. Negreet seen in the Senate with a loud round of applause at the end.” After Gatti’s speech the bill and being tough on criminals.” passes 35-4. You can view this speech on his FB Page or the QR Code on Page 3. Some elected officials spend their careers dodging questions from the media or even their own constituents, We Stand for Those Who Cannot Stand for Themselves See SEN. GATTI on Page 12 Louisiana Senate Why We Always Stand for the Flag Election Oct. 12, 2019 honorable about the heroism of a precious life to protect and defend By Sen. Ryan Gatti person who agrees ahead of time to our freedom. We cover our heart Senate District 36 State Senator, District 36 give his life for you--it’s unexplain- to remind us that the enemies of Senate District 36 able. The only correct response is America will not stop until they ex- Bossier, Webster, Bienville BENTON — We stand because and Claiborne Parishes those who fought and died for our standing. It’s not enough, but it’s tinguish the collective heartbeat of freedom cannot stand anymore. We the best tradition we have to show America — patriotism. However Sen. Ryan Gatti honor them by standing as Christ honor. different we are, our enemies see us We place our hand on our heart as the same heartbeat. Early Voting Begins stood at the passing of Stephen in to feel it beat. It reminds us that We cover our heart with our right Acts 7:56. many stood and volunteered to give hand because it is the traditional Sept. 28-Oct. 5, 2019 There is something special and their last heartbeat and their only See SENATOR on Page 9 Sen. Gatti Has Visited Every School in Dist. 36 Since His Own Days at Airline High, Sen. Gatti Has Had a Heart for Students, Education BOSSIER CITY — In his first 22 months as a State Senator, Ryan Gatti has kept his promise to make schools a priority and visited all 37 public schools in District 36 in Bossier, Web- ster, Bienville, and Claiborne parishes. He speaks to the student body and meets the students and teachers. “It’s one of my favorite things about this job!” he said. Many legislators may not even consider it part of their job, but Sen. Gatti does. “I love to be around young people because you can feel how much po- tential for good they have. I love to spend time with each one and inspire them to do great things,” he said. SEN. RYAN GATTI often speaks to students who come to the State Capitol in Baton “When based on Biblical values, edu- Rouge. Call his office if your group is planning a visit to the State Capitol. See SEN. RYAN on Page 2 Copyright 2019 Great Oaks ------September 2019 September Family and a Law Practice Susan and Ryan at their wedding at their Susan and Ryan SEN. GATTI on Page 10 See SEN. GATTI Ryan Gatti explained why he en- why he explained Gatti Ryan LSU Law the at enrolled Once from LSU Law graduated Ryan to Bossier and Susan returned Ryan many handled Over the years, Ryan Elizabeth, Their second daughter, suf- Rebecca, Their third daughter, Char daughter, fourth In 2010, their lotte, was born. tors voting no in 2018. However, Gatti 2018. However, tors voting no in to secure fund- worked with Edwards the Interchange, ing for the Barksdale extending Law, Bug’s Katie of passage aging out of the Foster Care to those other positive mea system and many will have disagreements, sures. “We we should build but where we agree problems.” solve and relationships high in law school. In junior rolled Mary Mar school my history teacher, our Constitutional coached Ray, garet Mrs. Ray encour Team. Quiz Bowl aged me to think about Law School Airline my teach and Politics. Later at and Mrs. Cain ers, Mrs. Finnimore, me to pursue Thrash encouraged Mrs. from a hard- a Law Degree. He came his working at While working family. a number he met yard, wrecking dad’s be to seemed all they and lawyers, of prosperous. His teachers also encour to go to law school. He came him aged and money to earn as a way to see it help people. and was Gatti excelled School, Ryan Associa- Student Government elected also served as the Ryan tion president. of LSU Board of the Member Student Regents, which gave him a view inside state government at an early age. of birth the before just 1999 in School their first daughter, Katherine.Susan while Baton Rouge in stayed They finished her graduate studies was a stay- For awhile, Ryan chology. in psy- dad taking care of Katherine at-home After an while Susan was at school. Services internship at the LSU Health as a work and New Orleans in Center school psychologist, Susan received an at Center to go to the Children’s offer LSUHSC in Shreveport. of began the practice and Ryan City, law in 2000. Susan went to work at LSUHSC an assis- where she became tant professor . success- became and cases important From 2007 to of law. ful in the practice 2008, he served as Judge of worker’s compensation cases in Shreveport. was born in 2002. as a result injury a serious brain fered Susan error. medical of an avoidable to LSU-Shreveport resign from to had care for her. - - - ” That summer, Ryan and Susan were Ryan That summer, On his first day of law school in the did they know 20 years Little that Gatti and Democrat Edwards is a ate studies after only two years and studies after ate his B.A., After earning months. nine school to he decided to take a year off He was admit work and earn money. ted to LSU Law School the next year. courting for six years. married — after to a next was seated Ryan of 1996, fall young military officer named John Bel to said, “Look instructor The Edwards. One of your right and look to you left! said, Ryan long!” be here you won’t “Looking at John Bel’s military bear Actually, ing, I thought I’m in trouble!” they both finished law school successfully. new Gov- be the Edwards would later, himself Gatti while ernor of Louisiana, would be a new State Senator. friends remain They a Republican. on some to work together and are able they have important things. However, occa- of number a swords on crossed 7 support the to refused sions. Gatti of 6 sena- was one and tax sales year REPORT CAPITOL — Sen. Ryan Gatti College and Marriage When I think aboutAirline High and what it meant to me, Ryan grew up working at his dad’s grew up working at his dad’s Ryan and Baylor to went Susan initially Susan moved to LSU and earned her

I get emotional. Except for God above and my parents, most nity and great role models in my teachers and coaches! of the good things I have in life started for me atAirline High, including my wife Susan! It was a place filled with opportu “ school team was this good. He learned and that it was a golden they weren’t Airline. era of baseball at valuable learned and yard wrecking today. on relies still he that work ethic the customer and make up early Wake family of their a big part happy were While 90’s. and 80’s the business in jobs, other working for his dad and at He was named hard. studied Ryan High Airline of his co-valedictorian of the was captain Class of 1992. Ryan attended teams, wrestling and football of AHS Student and was Boys State a debt “I owe my teachers Year. the I am I would not be who of gratitude. pressure I the No matter them. without will stand with them.” to continued they LSU but to Ryan humble origins, he was date. Despite was and fraternity a join to invited elected president of Kappa Sigma. psychol- Ph.D. in B.A., Masters, and - his undergradu completed Ryan ogy. with wife Susan and daughters Katherine, Elizabeth, and Charlotte and Elizabeth, Katherine, daughters Susan and wife with GATTI SEN. RYAN - Continued from Page 1 Page Continued from

Why Visit So Many Schools So Many Visit Why Growing Up at Airline High Up at Growing “Our teachers are feeling the stress the feeling are “Our teachers at the begin- promised Sen. Gatti and visit to me to important was “It with his youngest Sen. Gatti talked halls the walked Gatti Ryan Since High Airline about I think “When Airline High start- The blessings of was a busy high school For Ryan,

A Great School Gave Gatti Great School A Opportunities And His Wife Success For Leadership, cation is their hope for the future.” cation is their hope con- and testing of heavy weight and of stant change from the state as one the biggest obstacles in the classroom,” he said. he would visit ev- ning of his term that He was able district. the in school ery to keep that promise, visiting students their own turf to an- on and teachers about the con- swer questions and talk edu- cerns for the future of Louisiana’s cational system. - speak with teachers, face to face,” Gat ti said. “To really get a firm grasp on go as teachers, they, struggles that the - class their basis in daily on a through changes the all with especially rooms, happening in the state.” of constituents about the importance consensus, democracy, representative to like it’s and what compromise, and He engaged stu- legislator. be a state program about dents in a participatory each and presented the legislature State Flag, as school with a Louisiana Flag. Sen. Gatti American well as an has also hosted three leadership seminars to further invest in our students. Hundreds of juniors and seniors identi seminars. these attended leaders as fied High School as a student, Airline of had a passion for public education. he’s emo- get I me, to meant it what and for God above he said. “Except tional,” things most of the good and my family, Airline at there started right in my life I wonder in Bossier City. High School my in I had models role great the all at teachers and coaches!” ed with his wife Susan Lockhart Gatti, saw her walking “I there. met whom he she was and junior, I was a E-Wing. the of Miss front It was in sophomore. a phones or had no cell We room. Cole’s talk!” to had actually We Instagram. They started dating. football. He wrestled and played time. LSU by future led baseball, Airline was outstanding! Walker, Todd great high everyone’s wondered if Ryan

Same Opportunties He Had at Airline High Airline at He Had Opportunties Same Sen. Ryan Gatti Wants Kids Today to Have to Today Kids Wants Gatti Ryan Sen. — Ryan Gatti playing football for Airline High in Bossier City; with dad and mom, and with high school sweetheart Susan. sweetheart and with high school mom, with dad and High in Bossier City; Airline for football playing Gatti — Ryan DAYS EARLY — Ryan Gatti playing youth baseball, receiving football trophy, riding dirt bike, and principal Ken Kruithof. Ken principal and bike, dirt riding trophy, football receiving baseball, youth playing Gatti BOSSIER — Ryan SON OF NATIVE 2 September 2019 CAPITOL REPORT 3 Sen. Gatti Is Everywhere in Dist. 36

Memorable Speeches in the Louisiana Senate by Sen. Ryan Gatti Ryan at Lake Bistineau Ryan at Benton Christmas Parade Thumbs up: Rose in Sibley

Mayor Cat Cox (Cotton Valley)

SENATOR RYAN GATTI RIGHT TO LIFE Bossier, Webster, Bienville & Claiborne Parishes May 21, 2019 Reaches Out to the People through Town Hall Meetings, Visits to Schools, Civic Clubs HB425 by and Countless Meetings with Groups and Individuals Rep. Katrina Jackson Visiting school in Minden Supporters in Springhill One of Sen. Gatti’s greatest speeches Download QR Code Reader and Point Phone Here

Collecting supplies for South Louisiana flood victims Benton Christmas Parade TEACHERS PAY May 15, 2019 SCR 3 by Sen. Morrish Sen. Ryan Gatti on Teachers Pay Raise Download QR Code Reader and Point Phone Here

Ryan Gatti meeting with campaign volunteers Ryan Gatt and Larry House

Meet Ryan and Susan Gatti SALES TAX RYAN GATTI DR. SUSAN LOCKHART GATTI FOR ROADS B.A., LSU • J.D., LSU Law School B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. April 7, 2017 Psychology • LSU Governor’s Plan Member• Board of Regents Sen. Ryan Gatti on President • LSU Law School SGA Licensed Psychologist, School Specialty Why He’s Voting No President • Bossier Parish Bar Download QR Code Association Gratis Professor Reader and Point Phone Here Judge • Workers Comp Court LSU Health Sciences Center Susan and Ryan have been Attorney • Gatti & Merckle married 23 years. Louisiana Senator (2016-present) Daughters Katherine, Vice Chairman Elizabeth, Rebecca (in heaven), Senate Insurance Committee and Charlotte 4 CAPITOL REPORT September 2019 Sen. Ryan Gatti: An Inside Look at 1st of Seven Special Sessions Persevering During Special Sessions Legislators Found Themselves in BR During Endless Special Sessions Sen. Ryan Gatti Louisiana Senate, District 36 NOTE: I wrote the following at the end of the first week of the first of seven special sessions during this four-year term of the Loui- siana Legislature. You can see that I began with a very hopeful and positive attitude. Sen. Ryan Gatti gives students a tour of the Capitol; leaders of Minden Community College Bill, and Sen. Gatti testifying in Senate committee BATON ROUGE — We have completed the first week of the special session. We are holding our ground that significant cuts must be made during this special session for this fiscal year before any taxes will be consid- ered. We need cuts to programs where abuse is ram- pant and cuts to programs that are outside of the state government’s role. This is the only way to right size the government. While you may hear many of the same things from the media and political postur- Mayor Jimmy Williams Sibley and former Mayor Carroll Breaux Cassidy Horton, Robyn Horton, and Jennifer Fontenot of 410 Bridge ing from people running for higher office, I want to share with you an amazing and In previous years, the Governor’s ideas on the Budget were rubber-stamped by the legislature... significant change. I’ll pro- Legislators asked a few questions but ultimately followed. That is not the case today. Agency staff vide just four examples that members are being questioned, quizzed, and cross examined on significant issues. The House show we are on the right “ track. is going through each bill asking for fiscal impact and revenue statements. No quick actions have First, the “Save Act,” the been taken. This methodical process is what our state needs. Jindal sleight of hand to — Sen. Ryan Gatti on how the process is changing “get-money-to-higher-ed- without-passing-a-tax” tax ” that was passed last year. It did not place a premium on have implemented with the special session would be and runs through June 30. has been used as the main accuracy. They report now Governor’s office. Agency limited to raising taxes, be- We are cutting his budget example given to show the that they have been instruct- staff members are being cause the Governor has 100 because projected income is level of confusion exhibited ed by the executive branch questioned, quizzed, and percent authority over items a billion short of actual in- by legislators last term. This to be “honest” and “truth- cross examined on signifi- that can be legislated in the come received. These spe- law was repealed in the first ful” at all costs. This is a re- cant issues. special session. Special ses- cial session cuts are real and vote of the House in this freshing and new concept! The House is going sion calls usually follow significant and are a micro- special session. This change alone will lead through each bill asking for party lines. cosm of the cuts that will be This sent a clear message to a better dialogue between fiscal impact and revenue On February 5, 2016, I re- put in place in all foresee- to the citizens that we are the executive and legislative statements. No quick ac- ceived my copy of the Spe- able budgets. going to undo the bad deci- branches on all accounting tions have been taken. This cial Session agenda laid out I have drafted bills to be sions that were forced down and fiscal matters. methodical process is what by the Governor’s office. discussed during the special the legislature’s throat. We Third, questions are be- our state needs. The very first item states: session to reduce expendi- are going to make good on ing asked and legislative ac- Fourth, cuts are being “To provide for reductions tures. Again, I can promise our promise to turn off the countability is being imple- made to state government — (i.e. cuts) to the ordinary op- smoke and take down the that we will not ask for taxes mented. real cuts! Many of these cuts erating expenses of the state or for a parent of a disabled mirrors and be honest. This In previous years, the are permanent and they are government for the Fiscal was an ice breaker that was child, a TOPS recipient or a Governor’s ideas were rub- in areas where it will actu- Year 2015-2016.” This did teacher to suffer cuts if we long overdue. I was proud ber stamped by the legisla- ally make a difference. Gov. not have to be included in to listen to the debate and plan on wasting those same ture, because there was trust Edwards was lobbied by our the agenda, but it was. As dollars on business ideas see the leadership of the in their numbers. The legis- party to include a broad road such, we are allowed to cut author — it’s the necessary that are sure to fail. The gov- lators asked a few questions to cut expenditures for the the budget this year dur- ernment should not be in the leadership that we need to but ultimately followed be- 2015-2016 fiscal year -dur ing the special session. It is move ahead. business of being in busi- cause the numbers present- ing the special session. We never easy to make cuts, be- ness with someone or giv- Second, honest testimony ed required a “yes” vote. wanted the ability to chip cause midyear cuts are not before committees on tough ing seed money to business That is not the case this spe- away at the waste that is in based on waste or audits. ideas that are sure to fail. issues — even if it “hurts” cial session. Trust but verify the current year’s budget. We are cutting Jindal’s — will be the standard. Tes- is the analytical process we Many of us thought the budget that passed last year Lastly, the MFP that funds timony before committees education and Supplemen- is expected to be truthful. tal Pay to fire and police are For legal purposes, it is giv- items that are sure to be at- en under penalty of perjury. tacked this session. These While emotion and political are the largest part of the bias are allowed, the objec- “$3.6 billion that the state tive facts and numbers from sends to local governments” those testifying must be ac- that you hear about on ra- curate, because that is how dio and TV While MFP and legislators make their deci- Supplemental Pay are not sions. Just like testimony discussed individually, they before a judge or jury hear- are included each time you ing testimony in a case. hear “$3.6 billion that the In several committee state sends to locals.” They meetings this special ses- are also constitutional dedi- sion, staff for executive cations. I am committed to branch agencies has “con- fight to protect the MFP and fessed” that numbers were Supplemental Pay! not reported to the commit- Citizens and legislators tee with the upmost accura- working together are needed cy. The prior administration SEN. RYAN GATTI with Minden High ladies basketball team to curb wasteful spending. September 2019 CAPITOL REPORT 5

Northwest LA Senator Receives Highest Award Family Forum Honors Sen. Gatti Things You May Sen. Ryan Gatti: Not Know About A Spokesman for Sen. Ryan Gatti • Personal Best - Besides Family Values in his legislation on the right to life, the bill Sen. Ryan Gatti Louisiana Senate is proudest of is on Foster BATON ROUGE — The Louisiana Care. Under the old law, kids Family Forum (LFF) recognized Dis- could not stay in Foster Care trict 36 State Senator, Ryan Gatti, as after their 18th birthday, even a recipient of its highest award — the if still in high school. The Gatti Life and Liberty Award — at its An- bill, which is now law, allows nual Legislative Awards Gala in Ba- youngsters to stay with their ton Rouge. foster families until they gradu- The Senator was asked to address ate from high school up to age the annual statewide event. 21. He said, “I believe this will The Life and Liberty Award is do much to help Foster Care given to legislators who successfully kids move into the mainstream pass the most important legislation of society instead of being of the year that promotes life, liberty, kicked onto the streets.” and limited government. • Outstanding Spouse - Sen. Gatti was chosen as a recipi- Sen. Gatti’s wife, Susan Lock- ent thanks to his Senate Bill 33 of the hart Gatti, is highly accom- 2016 Regular Legislative Session. plished in her own right. She SB 33, now Act 196, which bans the has a bachelor’s, master’s, sale, receipt, transfer or acquisition and Ph.D. in psychology and of a fetal organ or body part from an has been Assistant Professor induced abortion. It subjects those at LSU HSC-Shreveport. who violate the law to felony pros- • Ethics & Religious Lib- ecution with a minimum of 10 years erty - Sen. Gatti serves as a in prison and a fine of up to $50,000 member of the Southern Bap- if convicted. tist Convention’s Commission “I am truly honored to have been on Ethics and Religious Lib- chosen for this award,” Sen. Gatti erty. This is a key policy-mak- said.. “Children are our hope and our ing body that guides Southern destiny. They are not merchandise. If Baptist churches on policy you sell baby parts in Louisiana, you matters between their annual will go to jail – period!” meeting. Sen. Gatti had a perfect 100 per- • Mission Trips - Sen. Gatti cent voting record with Louisiana has a passion for missions and Family Forum and also received the takes a mission trip every year Senator Ryan Gatti coveted Patrick Henry Award for his to Haiti, Mexico, or El Salvador. Receiving the highest award from the Louisiana Family Forum voting record. Nominate Someone for ‘Mama Pelican’ Award Sen. Gatti Has Created The Story of the Mama Pelican in the Words of Sen. Ryan Gatti A Way to Honor Those “Our state flag tells a power- own blood to her babies.” “They generously sacrifice ful story about Louisiana’s peo- “The three drops of blood on their time, talent or treasure so Who Make a Difference ple. The Mama Pelican goes out the flag represent the pain of her others can have a better life. Thank into the swamp to feed her young sacrifice.” the Mama Pelicans in your life!” In Our District, State chicks, but she finds no food. “Our flag reminds us of the Send Sen. Gatti an essay nomi- BOSSIER CITY — When Sen. Ryan Most would abandon their young Mama Pelicans in our lives. Stu- nating the Mama Pelican in your Gatti was first elected to the State when times get tough, but this dents say the flag reminds them of life for a Mama Pelican Award. Senate, he noticed that very few Mama Pelican is different.” family members, mentors, teach- Selected winners will receive a schools and businesses have or dis- “She returns to the nest and ers, police, fireman, military, and certificate. Email your essays to play the Louisiana flag. plucks her breast, then feeds her even Christ on the Cross.” [email protected] He decided to remedy that by bringing a Louisiana flag when he spoke somewhere. Soon he began telling the story of the Loui- Awards Received by siana flag and the great lesson of the Mama Pelican who pierces her Sen. Ryan Gatti Since own breast if necessary to feed her young. He Became Senator He noticed the three drops of Sen. Ryan Gatti has received the blood on the pelican’s breast and following honors and awards: • 2019 Legislator of the Year by saw them as a reminder that Louisi- the Professional Fire Fighters Asso- anians will make great sacrifices for ciation of Louisiana their children and their fellow man. • 2018 Outstanding Senator Sen. Gatti also noticed that there Award from the Louisiana Ambu- are great role models among us who lance Alliance epitomize the sacrifice of the Mama • 2018 Southeast Louisiana Unit- Pelican. That led him to create an ed Way State Legislative Champion award — the Mama Pelican Award • 2018 Louisiana Family Forum —which he presents to very special Family Advocate people. • 2017 Received plaque from He found a committee to consid- Bossier City Firefighters Associa- er nominees, and he has presented a tion for dedication and continued number of Mama Pelican Awards to support for firefighters. deserving recipients. • 2017 Louisiana Family Form’s Recipients can be from any- Patrick Henry Award for voting re- where in Louisiana, male or female, cord and of any age. To make a nomina- • 2017 Louisiana Family Forum tion, send an essay about the person Outstanding Family Advocate nominated to essay@mamapelican. SEN. RYAN GATTI presented a Louisiana state flag to Ruth Heidecker during retire- • 2016 Louisiana Family Fo- com. ment ceremonies recognizing her 43 years of faithful service. rum’s Life and Liberty Award 6 CAPITOL REPORT September 2019 Sen. Ryan Gatti in the News, Working to Make Life Better for NW Louisiana Bill Advances to Block Furloughs For Murderers Capital Report: In 2018, Sen Gatti was contacted by the Bamburg Family to reverse the law on this issue. Senator Gatti drafted SB 458 to exclude first degree murders from Medical furlough. Dennis Bamburg said, “I reached out to Ryan and within a few months we were in front of the legislative committees testifying about this injustice. The bill became law and no other family will have to suffer what we suffered through. Ryan lis- tened to us and ended this terrible loophole.” BATON ROUGE — A legislative committee on Tuesday narrowly approved a bill that would exclude convicted murderers from Louisiana’s use of medical furloughs for ailing prison inmates. The bill by Sen. Ryan Gatti of Bossier City was approved, 4-3, by the Senate Judiciary C Committee and sent to the full Senate for debate. The impetus for the bill is the case of 78-year-old Clyde Giddens, Sen. Ryan Gatti with Morgan and Kirk Grantham, Katie Bug’s parents who is serving a life sentence for the 1963 murder and dismember- ment of Earline Bamburg of Red River Parish but is seeking a medical furlough that would allow him Sen. Gatti’s ‘Katie Bug’s Law’ to be released from Louisiana State Sen. Gatti Wins Round for School Prayer Penitentiary in Angola. BATON ROUGE — Three young women from Northwest Louisiana — Katie Bow- RELATED REPORT: Family lin of Benton High School, Makenzie Swilley of Lakeside High School and Katherine forced to relive heinous murder fights Gains Unanimous Approval killer’s medical furlough request Gatti of Airline High School — testified in favor of Senate Bill 512 by Sen. Ryan Gatti The ailing Giddens has sought to be to allow school faculty members and staff to pray with students when student initiate BATON ROUGE - The Louisiana gan Grantham, mother of Katie moved to a health-care facility under the prayer. The bill passed the committee after their testimony. State Legislature unanimously ap- Grantham. the state’s expanded use of medical proved Senate Bill 138, introduced Senate Bill 138 was signed by furloughs for inmates in declining by District 36 State Sen. Ryan Gatti the governor. To view SB 138 and health. It’s part of efforts to reduce the state’s prison population, concentrate (R-Bossier City). Senator Gatti’s other bills, please more on alternatives to incarceration Senate Bill 138 mandates drug visit www.legis.la.gov. and save tens of millions of dollars testing after traffic accidents that Rep. Raymond Crews filed a each year. The state parole board last result in “serious bodily injury” or similar measure, HB132, which month denied Giddens’ request for medical furlough. death. It is known as “Katie Bug’s modifies post traffic accident drug Dennis and Margie Bamburg say Law,” named after 4-year-old Katie testing requirements, and presented they have been forced over and over Grantham of Bossier Parish. Senator Gatti’s bill, for which the to relive the brutal murder of Dennis’ mother in 1963 as the killer continues Katie passed away from com- Senator would like to extend a spe- to seek freedom. plications following a car accident cial thanks. Bamburg’s son, Dennis, testified where she sustained critical injuries Sen. Gatti would also like to before the committee on Tuesday in 2017. The vehicle she was riding thank Judge Harmon Drew for his and told lawmakers how the murder of his mother and Giddens’ repeated in was hit by another vehicle after guidance and input throughout the requests to have his sentence reduced Members of the Louisiana Senate being sworn in during organizational session in January 2016 that driver ran a red light. bill-drafting process. have affected his family. The other vehicle’s driver was “We have been to many, many of suspected of intoxication, but was those (clemency) hearings,” Bamburg not drug tested and without more said. “You gotta prepare for it; you got- Ryan Gatti Is New Senator for Dist. 36 ta go down and tell people and relive BATON ROUGE — One of 11 new senate evidence could not be charged with it. It just keeps your family disrupted.” members, the Bossier City republican was of- negligent or vehicular homicide. He A representative of Louisiana’s ficially sworn in during an organizational ses- served 10 days in prison for a traffic Department of Corrections said medical furloughs will save the state sion of the Louisiana State Senate Monday at violation. money, telling lawmakers Medicaid the State Capitol in Baton Rouge. “This bill is extremely impor- would pay 90 percent of the costs if “I am honored to have the opportunity to tant,” Senator Gatti said. “Before an inmate was moved to a nursing serve the people of Senate District 36,” Sen- home. ator Gatti said. “We have many challenges this law, drivers were only blood Gatti said his bill would also ahead. I am ready for the hard work needed tested for alcohol and drugs if there require nursing homes to give pa- to balance our state budget and make our was a fatality on the scene. How- tients and their families notice if colleges and universities and our education ever, the fact that Katie died in the nursing home is taking someone system the true priorities they should be.” convicted of first- or second-degree In the coming months, the 41 year old attor- the hospital and not in the vehicle murder. ney and small business owner will also focus should not make a difference. Peo- “You get more notice when a sex on infrastructure needs in the area, growing the ple need to be held accountable for offender moves in 500 yards from state’s energy sector, and standing with edu- their actions.” your house than when a murderer cation leaders and teachers. Other issues im- GOV. JOHN BEL EDWARDS signing moves five feet from your grandma portant to growing the state’s economy and de- “‘She wasn’t dead yet’ should in the nursing home,” Gatti told never again be a reason to not ad- Sen. Ryan Gatti’s Katie Bug Law to allow veloping good paying jobs, such as workforce immediate testing of blood alcohol levels committee members. development and improving local schools, are minister a blood test,” said Mor- of drivers causing fatal accidents. — KTBS-TV also on Gatti’s priority list. Beyond Parties: Sen. Ryan Gatti, The Governor, Foster Kids and Following Your Heart BATON ROUGE - Following age of 21.” Gatti said in a senate bill. We got a surprise message he But, a third event featuring spe- Edwards said, “which is so dysfunc- your heart; helping people; doing hearing during a session of the had written SB129. cial guest Gov. John Bel Edwards— tional—precisely because people of good—all admirable. But for a pol- Louisiana legislature. “Let’s talk about where kids a Democrat—generated attention different parties never talk to one itician—when does doing the right Foster children ‘aging out’ of end up that age out,” Gatti said around the state. another—and they don’t listen.” thing become a political liability? the system has become a cause for in the senate hearing, “about An article on the website “The “There’s no doubt he and I don’t A recent lunch in Bossier City put Senator Ryan Gatti—both in the twenty percent end up in prison; Hayride” carried the headline: agree on everything,” said Gatti, that question to the test; a luncheon legislature – and at a luncheon at 25 percent end up homeless.” “Why is Ryan Gatti using John Bel “but we do agree on helping our with two main players—a republi- this family home in Bossier City, With a million dollars from the Edwards as a fundraising tool?” foster families and those parents.” can senator and a democratic gover- dubbed “The Stable”. state—Gatti’s bill passed. Gatti said he wasn’t. Speaking of foster kids, they re- nor—and plenty of people in need. “Susan and I have had sev- We found a way to pay for the “I’m not going to get into that,” ceived baskets full of gift cards to Governor John Bel Edwards re- eral events at our house to raise implementation of the new policy,” said Gatti, “in Louisiana a rising help with back to school expenses. cently spoke to the Louisiana Task awareness for foster children,” said Gov. John Bel Edwards, “Ryan tide raises all ships. We’re always As for the politics of it all, analyst Force to extend foster care through Gatti Said, “foster children are has always been a champion of fos- going to have people get mad when Jeremy Alford weighed in on Gatti the age of 21. our hope and future and need our ter care.” you act civil in politics. They want and the governor. That was a problem Bossier help.” As evidenced by past events; a to see an MMA fight.” “What’s happening is you have City Senator Ryan Gatti has To strengthen his case for fos- June 2017 crawfish boil at Gatti’s “Senator Gatti and I have been some hard line Republicans and been addressing—but it left some ter kids to stay in foster homes home requested donations for the friends since the first day of law some hard line Democrats,” said questioning the politics of how he after age 18, Gatti turned to fos- pregnancy center and foster families. school in 1996.” Gov. Edwards said. Alford, “and they don’t like it did it. ter parents. “Ryan was listening, Last December Gatti hosted Lt. So, the Democratic governor when those lines are crossed.” “My bill simply asks that the when I didn’t know he was listen- Gov. Billy Nungesser—again ask- was happy to help the Republican And there could be a price to pay child remain funded by the state ing,” said Sage Easter, “and with- ing for gift cards for foster families senator.“The last thing we want to for that bipartisanship. until they graduate or attain the out our knowledge he wrote the or donations to Toys for Tots. do is become Washington, DC,” “This is not a risk free endeavor for September 2019 CAPITOL REPORT 7 Sen. Ryan Gatti in the News, Working to Make Life Better for NW Louisiana Sen. Gatti Secures $86 Million to Build I-20/I-220 Interchange for Barksdale AFB BATON ROUGE — For more than 30 years, Northwest Louisiana has been requesting an Interstate entrance into Barksdale AFB. Sen. Ryan Gatti secured the funding in 2018. The $86 million project broke ground this year, and crews are working on the new entrance to Barksdale from I-20 and I-220. Local leaders had list- ed the project as their No. 1 priority for decades. Sen. Gatti worked closely with DOTD and the Gov- ernor’s office to push for funding. At the groundbreaking, Sen. Gatti said, “After years of political battles and obstacles, we are all relieved to be at this groundbreaking. The interchange will open up 16,000 acres of the base for development. We will no longer be a base without an Interstate Sen. Gatti Wins Round for School Prayer gate. Folks living off base can BATON ROUGE — Three young women from Northwest Louisiana — Katie Bow- easily enter the base for work lin of Benton High School, Makenzie Swilley of Lakeside High School and Katherine from the interstate entrance. Gatti of Airline High School — testified in favor of Senate Bill 512 by Sen. Ryan Gatti No more city traffic and railroads to allow school faculty members and staff to pray with students when student initiate crossings. Folks living in Benton the prayer. The bill passed the committee after their testimony. and Minden can make it to the base in greatly reduced traffic times.” Aerial view of Sen. Ryan Gatti’s No. 1 priority — the Barksdale Extension for I-220 A New Day for Drivers with I-20/I-220 Interchange at Barksdale “As a Retired Officer and hav- working on this entrance. I attend- funding from the state for decades. ing served at Barksdale, I cannot ed the announcement ceremony Most had lost any hope that we thank Sen. Gatti enough for listen- for the GARVEE Bond Projects in would secure the funding for the ing to our local leaders and work- January 2018. Governor Edwards state’s portion of the gate. Sena- ing so diligently to secure funding specifically thanked Senator Gatti tor Gatti stepped up, crossed party for the entrance. Within the first for bringing this project to his at- lines and secured the funding.” few months of his term, he began tention. We’ve been asking for this —Mayor Lo Walker, Ret. Colonel

Members of the Louisiana Senate being sworn in during organizational session in January 2016 This is just the beginning of infrastructure projects in our area. We have a plan in place to make sure Bossier, Webster, Claiborne and Bienville receives funding Ryan Gatti Is New Senator for Dist. 36 “for major projects from Interstate 20 to bridges needed for Fibrebond and other “As a long time resident of Northwest Loui- companies. I will not stop until we can be proud of our roads and bridges. siana and a father of four daughters, I want to — Sen. Ryan Gatti make sure all of our children have an opportunity for a bright future in this state,” Gatti said. ” Sen. Gatti is a graduate of Airline High School in Bossier City, LSU-Baton Rouge and LSU School of Law. He is currently Vice-Chairman of the Republican Party of Bossier Parish and has served as a District Judge in the local Workers’ Compensation Free and Clear at Lake Bistineau Court. He will continue his private legal LAKE BISTINEAU - For more torney by trade—Hunt set out to find “Rather than having to file 200 practice in Bossier City. than a century, property owners a way to take clear title to her land. bills at a time to fix this,” said Gatti, Sen. Gatti is a member of First Baptist in around Lake Bistineau have been “The land office really did not “I think they see the problem now. Bossier City and serves as a deacon and teach- dealing with a legal quirk that make want to do it.” Hunt explained. They see we’re going to keep filing er. He is married to Dr. Susan Lockhart Gatti, it difficult and expensive to get clear “Every time we hit an obstacle,” these bills; and hopefully we can a psychologist with a specialty in school psy- title to their land. said Gatti, “she kept fighting.” knock it all out with one law next chology. The couple has four daughters: Kath- Now one northwest Louisiana Hunt says gaining clear title may year.” erine, Elizabeth, Rebecca and Charlotte. lawmaker is making it easier for folks not have been possible without Gat- But for right now—Catherine District 36 includes all of Webster Parish, as to sell or refinance their homes— ti—whose duty to his constituents Hunt is preparing to sell her home— well as parts of Bossier, Bienville and Claiborne. even though they have to pay a fee. overshadowed his profession. and breathing easier. —Minden News Herald, January 2016 “A lot of people were under the “One way to solve a title blemish is “I’m just glad it’s over,” Hunt impression the state was just going to do through litigation,” said Gatti, said, “it was a long process.” to give you the land,” said Catherine “that’s costly and you may not win.” Once Gatti got involved, Hunt’s Hunt, “the state’s not going to give But Hunt needed a sure thing. four-year odyssey wrapped up in you anything.” “Senator Gatti, being an attor- about a year. Beyond Parties: Sen. Ryan Gatti, The Governor, Foster Kids and Following Your Heart So, Lake Bistineau homeowner ney—I think that helped him cut “Act 191” is a no cost process for Edwards said, “which is so dysfunc- Senator Gatti, “Alford said, “he could Catherine Hunt embarked on a four- through a lot of the bull.” Hunt said. citizens; and Gatti stands ready to tional—precisely because people of potentially lose votes over this.” year process to gain full title to the Eventually Gatti streamlined help anybody who needs it. All you land upon which sits her house. the problem of taking clear title to have to do is contact his office. different parties never talk to one Politics aside—the most recent “It was extremely difficult to say Lake Bistineau land ownership. By Jeff Beimfohr, KTBS another—and they don’t listen.” get together at the senator’s house a the least.” Hunt said. “We just came up with a simple “There’s no doubt he and I don’t clear winner—foster kids. It was a problem dating back solution,” said Gatti, “where the state agree on everything,” said Gatti, “Thrilled,” said Sage Easter, more than a century—creating a title was paid for the land after it was ap- “but we do agree on helping our “didn’t believe it at first; because it blemish because of something called praised-- and the only person who foster families and those parents.” takes money, but it’s been funded the meander line. could buy the land-- was the person Speaking of foster kids, they re- and we are extremely excited.” “The meander line is just where who owned the home on the land.” ceived baskets full of gift cards to “I would hope this is a harbinger of the water line meanders back and It was a long and winding road— help with back to school expenses. more bipartisanship.” Edwards said. forth,” said Senator Ryan Gatti, but appears to be a win/win all Minden Press Herald As for the politics of it all, analyst SB129 was funded with $1-mil- “and that’s your property line with around. Jeremy Alford weighed in on Gatti lion from the state; allowing the the state.” “The state gets the money,” said and the governor. program to draw down another Anything below the meander line Gatti, “which is allocated to the “What’s happening is you have $3-million from federal funds. And heading toward the lake – belongs to Bistineau Salvinia Eradication Fund, some hard line Republicans and that will keep the kids in their foster the state—above the line belongs to and the folks get a clear title to their some hard line Democrats,” said homes after age 18. the homeowner. land.” Alford, “and they don’t like it As for the politics of it all, Gatti Hunt’s house was below the line; But one small problem remains; when those lines are crossed.” says he’s not worried—what’s im- that was a problem, so Hunt decided each time somebody wants to take And there could be a price to pay portant is finding common ground to do something about it. clear title—a separate bill has to be Catherine Hunt’s house at Lake Bistin- for that bipartisanship. and coming together as citizens of With Gatti’s help—who is an at- filed. eau. Houses like this now have protection. “This is not a risk free endeavor for Louisiana. — KTBS-TV, 8-2-18 8 CAPITOL REPORT September 2019 Senator Passes Bills to Improve Our Lives From Holding Down LEGISLATURE Taxes to Protecting Our Families to a Sen. Ryan Gatti’s Ryan Gatti: Fair Justice System BATON ROUGE — Sen. Ryan E. Legislative Accomplishments Champion Gatti is honored to serve as State Senator for portions of Bossier, Clai- q 4 Landmark Legislation for Unborn borne and Bienville and all of Web- Of Rights of ster Parish. He serves on the standing q 4 committees of Judiciary A, Natural Fought Unnecessary Spending Resources, and Veterans Affairs and 4 The Unborn is Vice-Chairman of the Senate Insur- q Opposed Unnecessary Taxes ance Committee. BATON ROUGE — Sen. Ryan Below is a list of many of the bills q 4 Gatti sponsored landmark leg- he has personally written since taking Defended Constitutional islation which prohibits the sale the oath of office in January 2016. Of Patrick Henry or transportation of body parts the 62 bills filed, 21 were signed by Rights and Liberties Award the Governor and became law. All of aborted babies. may be read in detail on the legisla- q 4 Education Reform The bill, which passed the tive site at www.legis.la.gov. Louisiana Legislature and was Authoring and handling 62 bills HE DID WHAT HE PROMISED! signed into law in 2016 by Gov. of diverse subject matter has allowed John Bel Edwards, is intended Sen. Gatti to have unique experience and perspective on the legislative pro- to stop the barbaric practice of cess. In only four years, Sen. Gatti has trafficking in human body parts presented bills in almost every com- acquired from unborn children. mittee in the House and Senate. “It’s Fines are $50,000 and 10 years easy to vote for or against bills, but the in prison for the first offense challenge of passing a bill is unique. with increasing penalties for Before appearing in a committee, you must have a deep understanding of multiple offenders. the subject matter whether it be foster The legislation, which gained care, reducing taxes, protecting jobs, national attention, has already first responder benefits, or protecting been credited with shutting public schools. We didn’t win every down the abortion clinic in battle, but we did the job we promised Bossier City. we would do. Each bill has a story be- hind it from a constituent. I treasure Gatti said one of the dirty se- the time spent with constituents at crets of the abortion industry is the Capitol in committee. Winning a that trafficking in human body tough bill for the folks back home is a parts is a ghoulish but highly great feeling.” profitable part of the business. If you have questions, concerns or The Gatti bill has been has ideas you think will help Sen. Gatti better serve you, please email him at been challenged in federal court [email protected] or give him a call and could eventually make its on his personal cell at (318) 560-6587. way to the U.S. Supreme Court, 2016 Regular Session setting up an historic test case SB33/Act 196 - RIGHT TO LIFE of the Louisiana law. - Prohibits sale or transport of body parts of aborted babies. SB34 - INSURANCE - Prohibits PRAYING OVER THE SENATE — Sen. Ryan Gatti opens a session of the Louisiana Sen- SB76 - CIVIL SERVICE - Consti- increase in vehicle liability insurance ate with prayer as Senate President John Alario and a Senate staff member bow their heads. tutional amendment to remove pro- rates under certain circumstances. SB41 - FUNDS - Increases sup- sation insurance premium reductions hibition against civil servants being SB35 - INSURANCE - Requires plemental pay for certain law en- for certain employers. able to engage in political activities. insurance for handling explosives. forcement officers and firefighters to SB46 - CRIME - Excludes carrying SB77 - FUNDS - Abolishes statu- SB39 - HOMESTEAD EXEMP- $1,000 per month. a concealed handgun from the crime tory dedication of funds. TION - Constitutional amendment to SB44/Act 470 - WORKERS’ of illegal carrying of weapons for cer- SB78 - MALPRACTICE - Increas- increase the homestead exemption. COMP - Provides workers’ compen- tain persons. es medical malpractice cap for certain child brain injuries. SB83 - PRESCRIPTION - Extends period within which to file tort actions from one to two years. SB84/Act 332 - CIVIL SERVICE - Provides relative to the sanctions for engaging in political activities for municipal fire and police civil service classified employees. SB142/Act 191 - PUBLIC LANDS - Authorizes the commissioner of administration to transfer state property in Webster Parish. SB146 - CAPITAL OUTLAY - Pro- vides for institutions of higher education to use capital outlay funds first for deferred maintenance. SB147 - SCHOOLS: Provides for charter schools to pay a proportionate share of local school districts’ Teach- ers’ Retirement System unaccrued liability. SB 148/Act 614 - STATE AGEN- CIES - Abolishes inactive boards and commissions, and districts. SB149 - SCHOOLS - Provides relative to funding of virtual charter schools. SB197 - PUBLIC CONTRACTS - Requires standard procurement process for solicitations between the state and private entities for hospital services, health care, or other services over $1 million. SB198 - BESE - Prohibits BESE from granting Type 2 charters in certain school districts. SB340 - PUBLIC CONTRACTS - Creates the Privatization Review Act SB401 - CIVIL PROCEDURE - Provides relative to civil jury trial threshold. See KEY on Page 11 September 2019 CAPITOL REPORT 9

Honest, Hardworking Senator with Traditional Values Sen. Ryan Gatti’s Guiding Principles Guiding Meet Sen. Ryan Gatti Principles • Louisiana State Senate by Sen. Ryan Gatti 2016-present • Vice Chairman, Senate • Protecting Local Jobs Insurance Committee • Stopping Abortion • Member of Senate Committees on Natural • Protecting 2nd Resources, Judiciary A, Amendment and Veterans Affairs • Supporting Barksdale • Past Vice Chairman, Republican Party of • Supporting Public Bossier Parish Schools • Partner, Law Firm of Gatti & Merckle • Balanced Budgets • Former Judge, Worker • Fighting Taxes Compensation, State of Louisiana • Cutting Wasteful • Juris Doctor, LSU Law Spending • B.A., LSU • Reduce Handouts • While in Law School, he was a clerk in Senate and Bailouts • President, SGA at LSU • Protect Family-Owned Law School Businesses • Louisiana Trustee to Ethics & Religious Liberty • Tough on Violent Crime Commission of Southern • Supporting First Baptist Convention ADDRESSING ANNUAL BANQUET OF LOUISIANA FAMILY FORUM — After being honored • Student Member, La. Responders with the Life and Liberty Award for his support of the family, Sen. Ryan Gatti addressed the annual banquet Board of Regents of the Louisiana Family Forum at Healing Place Church in Baton Rouge. • Honors College • President of Kappa Sig fraternity at LSU • Co-Valedictorian, We Stand for Those Who Cannot Stand Airline High School • Continued from Page 1 has persevered. After a vi- • Owner, Instant Shade lege and freedom we have is to stand with their right Trees, LLC, a farm in hand of covenant, oath and cious, all-night battle, at the today was secured, is being hand over your heart and North Bossier thanksgiving. It reminds us dawn’s first light, the flag secured, and will always be sing the anthem that honors • Cypress Baptist Church that the patriots who fought was still there! That scene secured on a battlefield by every race, creed and color Teaches Senior Boys to protect our freedoms, has been repeated over and a warrior who agreed ahead of patriot who gave his life. • Lions Club Member started their journey by rais- over during America’s life- of time to give his life, if These patriots are the reason • 410 Bridge Mission Leader ing their right hands into the time. Brave men and women necessary. It is one of his- we can answer the anthems • Licensed Minister & Deacon air and pledging their lives, of all races, creeds, and col- tory’s great mysteries that great question with a re- • Dixie League Softball Coach their fortunes, and their sa- ors putting it all on the line an American citizen would sounding “Yes!” • President, Bossier Parish cred honor to protect Amer- to win the battle and keep give up his individual free- “Oh say does that Star- Bar Association ica and its people. Our right the colors flying. doms and his life to expand Spangled Banner yet wave • Crystal Gavel Award, LA hand, because when we see While we don’t have an the freedoms of citizens he over the land of the free and State Bar Association them again we will extend anthem for every heroic bat- doesn’t know. Yet that mys- the home of the brave?” • Married for 23 years to the right hand of thanksgiv- tle in our history, the “Star tery binds us all together. Let us not be the last gener- Susan Lockhart, ing, shake their hand, and Spangled Banner” reminds The best tradition to bring ation to answer the Anthem’s Doctor of Psychology us that every right, privi- • They have four daughters thank them for their service, unity in our great nation great question with “Yes!” whether it’s here on earth or in heaven. We sing the words, even if we cannot sing well, because our speech has cre- Gatti: Firemen’s Legislator of the Year ative power; it binds us to BOSSIER CITY — Sen. Ryan went to bat for first respond- the past and protects our Gatti has been named Louisi- ers again in 2017, authoring future freedom. Singing the ana Firefighters Legislator of Act 287 to expand workers’ National Anthem renews our the Year for 2018. compensation benefits for patriotism and deflates our He was recognized for his firefighters to include any differences. We are remind- continuous contributions to type of cancer with a worked that when a battle is lost firefighters across the state at related origin. or a country falls to an ene- the organization’s 73rd An- Sen. Gatti also pushed my, the first ceremony is re- nual Professional Fire Fight- measures to increase supple- moval of the losing flag and ers Association of Louisi- mental pay for certain eligi- the hoisting of the enemy ana’s Convention on Feb. 9, ble first responders. Howev- flag. The enemies’ removal 2019. er, that effort has yet to make of the flag is a universal sign “Sen. Gatti takes a no-non- it through the legislative proof victory. The words of our sense approach in represent- cess. Anthem penetrate the heart ing his constituents as well as “I am incredibly honored of our enemy and remind all first responders through- to receive this award,” Sen. them that we are a force that out the State of Louisiana,” Gatti said. “It is not only has been battle-tested and firefighters state president, my job, but my privilege, to Chad Major, said. “He listens assist our first responders intently to our concerns, and in whatever way possible. although he is a very intelli- These men and women stand gent person, he allows good on the front lines of disaster common sense to prevail. He in our state. They deserve our is not only a compassionate utmost respect and support.” man of God, but also a fighter Sen. Gatti continued his for firefighters. It is our honor support for firefighters in to recognize him for his ef- the 2019 Regular Legisla- forts and it is our privilege to tive Session by sponsoring call him friend and brother!” legislation to assist first -re Matt Lauterbach, president FIREFIGHTERS LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR — Sen. Ryan sponders dealing with Post- of the Bossier City Firefight- Gatti was honored by firefighters across Louisiana as their top legislator. Traumatic Stress Disorder ers, said, “The Bossier City (PTSD). The bill passed and Firefighters are truly honored reflect those of our member- islation benefitting first- re will provide immediate assis- that our local senator is the ship and we are proud to have sponders. In the 2016 Regu- tance to first responders suf- recipient of this prestigious Sen. Gatti honored by our lar Legislative Session, Sen. fering from PTSD. award and to have been a collective brothers and sisters Gatti’s Act 332 lessened the Professional Fire Fighters part of the ceremony. Sen. throughout our great state.” penalties for first responders Association of Louisiana has Gatti has not stopped carry- Throughout his tenure as who engage in political ac- represented the career profes- ing our flag since the day he state senator, Sen. Gatti has tivities, requiring a suspen- sional fire fighters throughout Sen. Ryan Gatti with his legisla- first arrived in Baton Rouge. supported firefighters around sion rather than termination the state since 1940. tive page, Camyrn Banks His strong Christian values the state by sponsoring leg- on a first offense. Sen. Gatti —Bossier Press article 10 CAPITOL REPORT September 2019

Bossier Businessman Banned from Using Cross in His Ad Sen. Gatti Fights to Protect Christian Symbols been told to remove the design from the field, but they refused, saying they Christian Gym Paid would not remove Christian symbols from the field. For Ad on Field, The District Judge signed the order, but the school had already removed the Only to Have It ad from the field. Undeterred, Sen. Gatti demanded that the field be repainted and the ad Pulled by System returned. BENTON — Sen. Ryan Gatti wasn’t Meanwhile, the Bossier Parish looking for controversy, but when School Board, which had not yet had Christ Fit Gym owner Billy Weath- a chance to meet on the controversy, erall called him last September, Sen. called a special meeting. They went Gatti knew he had to get involved in into executive session, since the matter controversy in order to protect the reli- involved litigation. gious liberty of students in Bossier Par- After a long meeting, the board ish schools and around the country. emerged and announced that they Christ Fit Gym is a non-profit gym unanimously voted to have the Christ which use physical fitness as a means to Fit Gym ad restored to the football minister to people. For years it has sup- field, just as it had been before the out- ported Benton High School and adver- side group got involved. tised during football games. Last year, It was a huge victory for Billy Weath- the gym paid the Benton High booster A RESTRAINING ORDER filed by Sen. Ryan Gatti resulted in the ad for Christ Fit Gym being restored to the Benton High School football field at the beginning of last season. erall, the courageous students who re- club $3,500 for advertising space in the fused to remove the ad, the students in end zone during high school football Bossier schools, and Sen. Gatti, who pro- games. Thank you Senator Ryan Gatti for helping Christ Fit Gym take vided his legal services free of charge! At the same time, the Bossier Par- a stand with the football field incident. With Sen. Gatti’s legal ad- ish School System was in negotiations Billy had been told by other attor- with Americans United for Separation vice and legal team, we were able to get the Christian Fit Gym neys that if he fought it would costs “ millions of dollars and every cross and of Church and State to settle a suit the logo back on the football field for the 2018 and 2019 football left wing organization had filed al- season. Christ Fit Gym is thankful for Sen. Gatti and his office! Christian symbol would be removed from Florida to Texas. Those attorneys leging that Bossier schools promote — Billy Weatherall, Christ Fit Gym Christianity. were wrong again. The litigation costs When the liberal group found out ” nothing and the sign was returned be- about the ad, which included the name though Billy Weatherall and Christ Fit restraining order in the 26th District fore the next game. Christ Fit Gym, a cross, and a Bible Gym had a legally-binding contract Court asking the judge to prevent the All during the 2018 football season, verse, it complained to legal counsel for the space and had paid the $3,500. booster club from removing the ad. the name Christ Fit Gym, the cross, for the school board. When Weatherall called Sen. Gatti, Students had been told to spray and 1 Timothy 4:8 stayed in place in As result, legal counsel told the who is also an attorney, Gatti went paint over the symbol the end zone of the Benton High Tigers school system to remove the ad, even into action immediately. He filed a At the school, two students had football field. Sen. Ryan Gatti Believes in Faith, Family, Education Continued from Page 2 gious business honors program. Kath- Daughter Charlotte, 9, just entered they teach High School Small Groups. Rebecca passed away in 2017. The erine serves on leadership at her church fourth grade at W. T. Lewis Elementary. Ryan teaches junior and senior high details of the tragedy are recorded and various other organizations. She enjoys art, writing, language, and school boys and Susan teaches sopho- in the family blog, www.gattigirls. Daughter Elizabeth, 16, is Airline math. She plays softball and volleyball more girls. The family also leads a mis- blogspot.com. High School’s junior vice president. and participates in cheer, gymnastics, sion trip to Bossier, Haiti once a year. The oldest daughter, Katherine, now She served as her class president the honor choir, and 4H. On her first day of During the 2015 campaign, Ryan 19, was President of her class at Air- previous two years. She is in the lead- school, she made an impression when had to make an important and very tell- line High, Editor of the school news- ership for Fellowship of Christian Ath- she passed out Christian tracts to the ing decision — between his faith and paper, the Askalada, and a member letes, co-editor of the Askalada, and a students. She and a friend started Bull- his political aspirations. The final days of the Homecoming Court her Senior member of the varsity volleyball team. dogs Give Back, which organizes ways of a campaign are the most intense, and Year. She attended Girls State and was In 2016, Elizabeth was Bossier Parish their school can help meet needs in the candidates traditionally work around a Founder of Protect Prayer. Katherine Middle School Student of the Year. She community such as the HUB. the clock the last two weeks to do ev- graduated from Airline High with a 4.2 was elected governor at Youth Legis- Ryan is the son of Robert and Jean erything they can to get their voters to average, scored 34 on the ACT, and lature. She was captain of Fellowship Gatti. They are long time residents of the polls. was awarded a scholarship to TCU. At of Christian Athletes and co-captain of Bossier Parish and attend Christ the However, Ryan had a long-planned TCU she is in the Honors College and the cheer squad at Cope Middle. Eliza- King and St. Jude’s Church. mission trip scheduled for the week of Majoring in both Business and Psy- beth has volunteered for many com- Church and Mission Work the election. He had to choose between chology. She is a member of Zeta Tau munity projects and gone on numerous Ryan and Susan are active mem- the obligation he had assumed to com- Alpha and Neeley Fellows, a presti- church mission trips. bers of Cypress Baptist Church where See A NATIVE on Page 12 September 2019 CAPITOL REPORT 11 Sen. Gatti Bill Sen. Gatti Donates State Salary Teaches How Legislative Salary To Act during Went to Worthy Traffic Stops MINDEN — Sen. Ryan Gatti, Causes in Dist. 36 District 36, has pre-filed a senate bill that would make it law for driver’s Past Three Years education instructors to teach appro- BOSSIER CITY — When he took priate behavior when stopped by a office in 2016, Sen. Ryan E. Gatti law enforcement officer. He said this provision in driver’s decided to use his legislative sal- ed instruction is important because ary to help fund worthy causes in driver’s safety, especially young Bossier, Webster, Claiborne, and driver’s safety, is important for all. Bienville parishes. “The average person will get Now, as he nears completion of pulled over only a few times in their his four-year term, Sen. Gatti has driving career,” he said. “This training will help our young drivers.” reported on the donations made: Senate Bill 17 would dictate that — 2016 — the Departments of Public Safety and In 2016, Sen. Gatti donated his Corrections “provide instruction rel- entire legislative salary of $16,800 ative to trailer safety, to the econom- to the Lake Bistineau Foundation. ic effects of littering and to appro- The foundation is composed of priate driver conduct when stopped property owners around the lake. by a law enforcement officer.” It works to restore Lake Bistineau, Sen. Ryan Gatti presented a check for $16,800 to Geaux 4 Kids last year. It goes on to say oversight of these which has been fighting the aquatic rules would be conducted by the provide universal access to food for ated on Christian principles. Christ House and Senate Committees on water plant, giant salvinia. transportation, highways and public Foundation president Pete Camp, the needy in our communities. Fit Gym’s mission is 1 Timothy 4:8, works, in accordance with the Ad- said “Sen. Gatti promised he would • St. Jude Children’s Hospital “for physical training is of some ministrative Procedure Act. make Bistineau a priority and he St. Jude Children’s Hospital, value, but godliness has value for all The bill is the brainchild of for- has lived up to that. This donation founded by the late entertain- things, holding promise for both the mer NFL player and Haynesville er Danny Thomas, is one of the present life and the life to come.” native Demetric Evans, who called will help our group move forward Gatti with the idea. with several projects. We appreci- world’s premier centers for the Christ Fit Gym will strengthen you research and treatment of pediat- physically but more importantly “After the Dallas shootings, he ate this generous gift and the light it began to brainstorm about this issue shines on the needs of our lake.” ric cancer and other catastrophic will help strengthen you spiritually. and had the idea of adding a one to — 2017 — childhood diseases. The Minden Christ Fit Gym has weekly Bible two hour component to the Louisi- In 2017, Sen. Gatti divided his St. Jude auction began in the 1970’s Devotions and goes overseas twice ana Drivers Education classes focus- legislative salary among three and has raised more than $4 million. a year to help spread the Gospel of ing on driver courtesy during a traffic Minden is known as the friendliest Jesus Christ. stop,” Gatti said. “We envision part groups as follows: of the course to be taught by an of- • Ringgold Food Pantry city in the nation, but during the — 2018 — In 2018, Sen. Gatti donated his ficer in person or online. Hopefully, The Ringgold Food Pantry is a St. Jude’s Auction, they become we can make the traffic stop safer for branch of the Food Bank of North- the most generous, too. Last year’s legislative salary of $16,800 to all involved. We have asked for in- west Louisiana, whose mission is to event raised $1.5 million. Minden Geaux 4 Kids and Geaux Bags. put from law enforcement and it has be the primary resource for fighting raises more per capital than any city Geaux 4 Kids helps children from been positive thus far. hunger in Northwest Louisiana. It in the United States — roughly $40 newborns to 18 who are enter- “I’ll be honest,” he continued. “As aims to ultimately end hunger in the a person! ing the state’s foster care system. my friend was talking to me about the • Christ Fit Gym — 2019 — idea on the phone, I was driving, and area by maintaining a consolidated you guessed it, I got pulled over.” network of effective food collec- Christ Fit Gym is a non-profit Sen. Gatti said he will donate his Gatti gave a few suggestions to tion and distribution which will Christian gym organized and oper- salary for 2019 by early next year. integrate into the course: Upon being pulled over, turn off music, get your driver’s license and proof of insurance ready for the officer before he approaches the window Key Legislation Authored by Sen. Gatti 2016-2019 and asks for it. Continued from Page 8 Roll down your window prior to as the “Louisiana State Trooper Huey PLOYEES - Adds post traumatic being asked by the officer. SB415 - WATER/WATERWAYS - P. Grace Memorial Highway”. stress disorder to the list of injuries Place your hands on the steering Creates Lake Bistineau Recreation SB73/Act 645 - CRIME - Provides which are compensable for injured wheel in clear view of the officer: in and Water Conservation District. relative to Fetal Organ Whistleblower public employees. a “9/3 o’clock” position. SB426 - ENVIRONMENT - Pro- Account. SB138/Act 408 - CRIME - Pro- Make eye contact with the officer hibits open burning of explosives. SB78 - CRIME - Creates crime of vides relative to the definition of “se- when he or she is speaking to you SCR68 - HEALTH SERVICES - battery of a utility service employee. rious bodily injury”. and when speaking to him or her. Urges the Dept. of Defense and Loui- SB79 - CRIME - Increase penalties SB139 - EMPLOYMENT - Prohib- (Do not look straight ahead or at a siana Dept. of Health and Hospitals for teachers who engage in sexual re- its workplace bullying and harassment. guest in the vehicle while being ad- to coordinate efforts to provide infor- lationships with students. SB206 - LICENSES - Provides dressed or addressing the officer.) mation to military families regarding SB129/Act 649 - FAMILY - Pro- relative to seizure of driver’s license “This is common sense legislation services for intellectual or develop- vides relative to foster care children under certain circumstances. that will allow parents and law enforce- mental disabilities. in high school. SB207 - CRIME - Provides felony ment to breathe easier,” Gatti said. SCR2 - HEALTH CARE - Legis- SB140 - TUITION - Provides ac- criminal penalties for violating any “If we can remove anxiety from lature to study decreasing the use of tive duty military members, quali- law governing the expenditure of the traffic stop, then that is good for emergency rooms in hospitals across fied veterans, or the spouses and de- funds in the Transportation Trust Fund. everyone.” Louisiana for primary care instead of pendent children of certain military SCR147 - COMMENDATIONS - — Minden Press-Herald emergencies. members with an education benefit. Commends First Lt. John Stillmon 2016 2nd Special Session SB141 - TAXES - Provides a rebate Willis Jr. upon the celebration of his Note: SB 17 by Sen. Gatti passed the SB1 - TAX EXEMPTIONS - Re- for TOPS recipients who complete a 100th birthday. House and Senate unanimously. It was stores sales tax exemption for admis- B.A. degree in three years. SR37 - LEGISLATIVE AGEN- signed by the Governor and became law sions to athletic and entertainment SB211/Act 237 - CHILDREN - CIES - Requests Louisiana Law Insti- on January 1, 2018. events for schools. Provides relative to parental drug tute to study the feasibility of autho- 2017 Regular Session testing before allowing a foster child rizing “series” LLC’s in Louisiana. SB17/Act 28 - TRAFFIC - Provides to return to the home. SR55 - COMMENDATIONS - driver education to include instruction SB212/Act 365 - ROADS - Autho- Commends Carroll Breaux, mayor of on appropriate driver conduct when rizes DOTD to lease equipment. the city of Springhill, for 28 years of stopped by a law enforcement officer. SB262 - GOVERNOR - Provides dedicated public service on the occa- SB47 - TAXATION - Reduces in- relative to powers of the governor sion of his retirement. come tax rate on oil and gas bonus pay- during times of emergency. SR90 - COMMENDATIONS - ments and royalty payments to zero. SB299 - COMMERCE - Provides Commends R&V Works and its own- SB63/Act 287 - EMPLOYMENT that if one business gets an advantage ers, Robert and Vicki Myers, for their - Provides cancer as an occupational from government, all businesses in many years in business as a Louisiana disease or infirmity connected with the state receive the same advantage. manufacturer. the duties of a firefighter. SB458/Act 573 - CRIME - Prohib- SR180 - COMMENDATIONS - SB64/Act 184 - ANIMALS - Pro- its medical furlough to any offender Commends Kim Howell on being vides animal shelter operating proce- guilty of 1st degree murder. named School Librarian of the Year dures and training requirements and SB505 SCHOOLS - Allows peace by the Louisiana Association of authorizes animal shelters to post pic- officers, with approval of the princi- School Librarians. tures of animals on social media. pal, to patrol schools. SR209 - COMMENDATIONS - HB220 - SALES TAX - Reduces SB512/Act 673 - SCHOOLS - Al- Commends Benton Middle School on the state sales and use tax rate. lows school employees to participate becoming the national champions in 2018 Regular Session in student-initiated prayer. the 2019 National Archery in Schools Demetric Evans, former NFL player and SB21/Act 217 - ROADS - Desig- 2019 Regular Session Program U.S. Eastern National Tour- Haynesville native called Sen. Ryan Gatti nates a portion of I-20 Bossier Parish SB107/Act 122 - PUBLIC EM- nament. with an idea to help motorists and police. 12 CAPITOL REPORT September 2019 Senate District 36

Claiborne Bossier Parish Parish

Webster Parish

Bienville Real Leadership at State Capitol Parish District 36 Keep Sen. Ryan Gatti Fighting for Us at Capitol Volunteer & Get Yard Signs Sen. Gatti Held 50 Town Halls Volunteer to help or get a yard sign by calling (318) 422-8669 In All Four Parishes of Dist. 36 Facebook Visit and “Like” Ryan’s Facebook page: Senator Ryan Gatti www.facebook.com/senatorryangatti/ Website Visit https://www.senatorryangatti.com/ where you will find more information. To Reach Ryan Reach Sen. Ryan Gatti directly at: • Email: [email protected] • For campaign: (318) 422-8669 • For legislative business: (318) 746-0861 • Mail: 2123 Shed Rd., Bossier City, LA 71111 Vote on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019 Early Voting is Sept. 28 to Oct. 5 Re-elect Ryan Gatti State Senator - District 36 Scenes from some of Sen. Ryan Gatti’s 50 town hall meetings across District 36 Paid for by Ryan Gatti for Senate Campaign Continued from Page 1 “Accountability is the main part of especially today when politics has got- these town halls. It’s a great opportu- ten so mean and destructive. Perhaps nity to report on the work I have done, that’s why so few elected officials hold explain the legislative process and the town hall meetings anymore. They are positions I have taken, answer ques- embarrassed to answer questions about tions from constituents, and listen to Yes, Ryan! their voting record or the latest attack their ideas, criticisms, and suggestions. against them in the media. So often, constituents have said that However, Sen. Gatti sees town hall while they may not agree with every meetings differently from most politi- vote I have made or every position I cians. “It’s really a wonderful oppor- have taken, they truly appreciate my tunity for me to renew old friendships coming to their community and having and make new friends. I really listen to an honest, open, and constructive dia- people’s concerns. My job is to go to logue.” Baton Rouge and represent the values of the good people of our beautiful part of the state. I don’t consider myself a A Native of Bossier, You Can Count free agent to vote however I choose. I’m there to faithfully represent our Sen. Gatti’s Love of people’s views.” on Me! Sen. Gatti said, “I really learn a lot from our town hall meetings. It’s an ex- Northwest Louisiana change of information and ideas — going both ways.” Motivates His Actions The senator said the first job of ev- Continued from Page 10 Mail to Ryan Gatti Campaign Committee, ery elected official is to support the plete the mission trip or canceling the 2123 Shed Rd., Bossier City, LA 71111 federal and state constitutions and to trip and campaigning. After prayerful vote in accord with his platform and deliberation, he decided to fulfill his Please attach a note or a letter telling me your views on the promises he made when he ran. mission obligation. When the polls the issues that most concern you. “That’s really a contract with the peo- closed, he was in Haiti ministering to ple,” he said. “After that, the people’s Dear Ryan, I want to help as follows: views should be faithfully respected the needy. Nevertheless, in his absence, [ ] Yard sign [ ] Volunteer and reflected at the State Capitol.” the voters elected him State Senator for [ ] Contribute ______to “Ryan Gatti Campaign Committee” “Representing our district is rela- Bossier, Webster, Bienville, and Clai- tively easy because our citizens believe borne parishes! Name ______in the Constitution and traditional val- As a state senator, Ryan Gatti keeps Address ______ues. The platform I ran on is the same a very busy schedule serving the peo- City State Zip Code ______as what they believe. But there is a ple of Northwest Louisiana, but one of whole range of issues that reasonable Email Address ______the things he always makes time to do men and women can disagree on, and is continue to visit the schools in the Phone Number ______that’s where town hall meetings can be district’s four parishes and continue his so valuable.” mission trips to Haiti.