This resolution honors the life, distinguished public service, and significant legislative contributions of the late former Louisiana Senator, John Bennett Johnston, Jr.
Bill Cassidy
Senator
LA
This resolution formally honors the life and extensive public service of the late Honorable John Bennett Johnston, Jr., former U.S. Senator for Louisiana. It details his career, highlighting his significant tenure on key Senate committees, particularly his leadership on energy policy. The resolution recognizes his legislative achievements benefiting Louisiana, including flood control and conservation efforts. Finally, the Senate adjourns immediately in his memory as a final tribute to his service.
Senate Resolution Honors Former Louisiana Senator John Bennett Johnston, Mandates Immediate Adjournment
This resolution is a formal tribute from the Senate, honoring the life and extensive career of former Senator John Bennett Johnston, Jr. of Louisiana. It’s essentially the Senate’s way of saying farewell and documenting his contributions, starting with his birth in 1932, his education at LSU Law School, and his progression from the Louisiana House and State Senate to the U.S. Senate, where he served from 1972 to 1997.
The Energy and Environment Legacy
The resolution highlights that Senator Johnston was a major player on the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, chairing it between 1987 and 1995. This wasn't just a fancy title; it meant he was shaping national energy policy. For folks in Louisiana, his work secured better flood control and hurricane protection, and he pushed hard for expanded offshore oil and gas drilling, which is a huge economic driver for the region. He was also instrumental in conservation efforts, creating over 120,000 acres of national wildlife refuges in Louisiana wetlands and helping establish the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. This part of the resolution serves as a detailed historical record of how one person’s tenure directly impacted the physical and economic landscape of a state.
What Happens Next: The Procedural Respect
Since this is a ceremonial resolution, it doesn't change any laws or regulations that affect your daily life, but it does dictate specific actions within the Senate. First, the Secretary of the Senate must immediately inform the House of Representatives about the resolution. More importantly, an official, final copy must be sent directly to the late Senator Johnston’s family. The ultimate sign of respect is procedural: the resolution mandates that when the Senate finishes its business for the day, it will stand adjourned immediately afterward in memory of the Honorable Bennett Johnston. It’s a formal, time-honored way the chamber acknowledges the passing of a former colleague, ensuring his service is officially recognized before they close up shop for the day.