7/11/05-SB217 has died. However, an identical bill – HB654 – has been signed into law.

5/24/05-The Senate Transportation Committee has approved a bill that would set aside money to complete Louisiana’s portion of Interstate 49.
Sponsored by Rep. Billy Montgomery, D-Haughton, SB217 would allow as much as $15 million dollars annually from unclaimed property revenues in the state to help pay off bonds to complete unfinished stretches of the interstate from New Orleans to the Arkansas line.
The total I-49 funding – which could be as much as $750 million – would be split evenly to the north and south portions.
Those stretches run north from I-20 in Shreveport to the Arkansas line and south from I-10 in Lafayette to the West Bank Expressway in New Orleans.
The revenue would be used for I-49 when the federal government puts up money for construction. Approval of the state Bond Commission would then be needed before the bonds could be sold.
The bill has been sent to the full Senate for further discussion.
For bill status, call (504) 342-2456. In Louisiana, call 1-800-256-3793.
An identical House bill – HB654 – recently passed the House and has been forwarded to Senate.
Lawmakers are expected to forward the legislation to Gov. Kathleen Blanco, who endorsed the legislation earlier this month.