Just days after Louisiana voters rejected four proposed state amendments, Governor Jeff Landry has introduced a new plan to save government money — and it’s inspired by none other than Elon Musk.
One of the key amendments that failed, Amendment Two, would have made changes to Louisiana’s tax system by lowering state income tax. With that option off the table, Landry is now looking for other ways to manage state spending.
What Was Amendment Two All About?
In late 2024, Governor Landry introduced changes to Louisiana’s tax system. The plan aimed to reduce income tax rates, which was expected to make the tax process simpler and more business-friendly.
But in early 2025, when voters were asked to approve this next phase through Amendment Two, they said no. The failure of this amendment created a gap in future state funding, as the reduction in taxes would have been balanced by other savings.
Now, with the tax plan blocked, Landry is turning to cost-cutting as a new solution.
Inspired by Elon Musk’s Strategy
Governor Landry’s latest move resembles something we’ve seen from Elon Musk and his efforts with DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency). Musk’s focus has been on reducing wasteful government spending, even placing a hiring freeze on federal agencies to slow down costs.
Landry has now issued a similar hiring freeze for Louisiana’s state departments and offices. He believes this temporary step will save the state around $20 million per year.
Who Does the Hiring Freeze Affect?
The freeze applies only to state-level departments and agencies. Local governments — such as cities and towns — will not be affected. That means municipalities can continue hiring if they need to.
How Long Will This Hiring Freeze Last?
Governor Landry didn’t provide a clear timeline. He simply said the freeze is temporary and designed to “ensure the long-term fiscal health of Louisiana.”
More details may be announced in the coming weeks, but for now, the hiring freeze is expected to stay in place until further notice.
What Does This Mean for Louisiana?
This move is part of Landry’s broader efforts to balance Louisiana’s budget without raising taxes. With voters rejecting income tax changes, the state must now focus on reducing expenses — and cutting down on hiring is one way to do that.
It’s a bold move that follows the same thinking used by Elon Musk, who has been pushing government agencies to reduce costs through strict policies.