Louisiana Constitutional Amendment 3 explained

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)—Four constitutional amendments are on the ballot for Louisiana voters. Amendment Three concerns juvenile justice.

The amendment reads, “Do you support an amendment to provide the legislature the authority to determine which felony crimes, when committed by a person under seventeen, may be transferred for criminal prosecution as an adult?”

If passed, it would give the Louisiana legislature the authority to determine which crimes a juvenile can be convicted of and sent to adult prison. Advocates have said it is part of Governor Jeff Landry’s tough-on-crime approach.

Opponents say 16 crimes are already listed as juvenile offenses under the discretion of District Attorneys.

“We were not told what crimes you want to add. So we don’t know what that would look like. If you’re trying to take something away or add it. What could it be?” said Sate Rep. Tammy Phelps, (D) District 3.

The Louisiana Center for Children’s Rights executive director is also speaking out about the amendment.

Election day is March 29. Early voting is March 15 through the 22.