The Program
Youth Legislature of Louisiana introduces students to the legislative process where, along with classroom instruction the students prepare for a 2-day mock legislative session. Some schools use Youth Legislature as part of their curriculum, and others use it as a platform for clubs. When school starts the students begin research to write bills and speeches.
On Day One, Students come prepared to give speeches for the offices of Governor, Speaker of the House, and Senate President. These elected positions are determined by the students voting on actual voting machines provided by the Secretary of State’s Voter Outreach division.
The students actively engage in student-run House & Senate Committee Meetings and debate Bills as Representatives and Senators.
Press Delegates and Photojournalists report on and document the happenings of each legislative session by participating in a press conference with the Governor and Cabinet Members, and a press briefing with the Governor. Press Delegates produce two articles by observing bill debate and interview legislators, bill sponsors and members of the Governor’s Cabinet. The photojournalists create a slideshow video using images they captured during the two days.
A highlight of the closing ceremony on Day Two is when students are recognized and inducted into the Hall of Fame. Students who stand out above all others by being well-prepared, actively participating in a professional manner, and respectively debating bills are recognized by staff and teachers via a special outstanding award.
Youth Legislature of Louisiana 