The gift limit for food, drink, and refreshments in Louisiana increased from $77 to $79 as part of an annual increase reflecting changes in the consumer price index.

Lobbyists and non-lobbyists may now give a public servant or public employee any food, drink, or refreshment the total value of which does not exceed $79 for a single event.

The $79 limit does not apply to gatherings held in conjunction with a meeting related to a national or regional organization, or to meetings of a statewide organization of governmental officials or employees.

The Legislature called itself into a special session in response to a unanimous ruling by the Utah Supreme Court that ruled the Legislature cannot undermine ballot initiatives passed by voters.

Lawmakers will consider placing a constitutional amendment on the ballot to prohibit foreign entities from contributing to ballot initiatives or referenda; restore and strengthen the ability of voters, the Legislature, and local bodies to amend or repeal legislation; and extend the period to collect signatures for the referendum process from 40 to 60 days.

The special session is set to begin August 21.

Gov. Jeff Laundry called a special session to redraw the state’s congressional district map.

This comes in the aftermath of a federal judge ruling Louisiana’s congressional map violates the Voting Rights Act by diluting power of Black voters.

The session is scheduled to convene January 15 and could potentially address other issues including a redrawing of state Supreme Court districts and moving from an open primary election system to a closed primary system.

The Wichita City Council amended the campaign finance ordinance to prohibit city candidates from accepting political contributions from corporations and limited liability companies.

Individuals, political action committees, sole proprietorships, professional associations, and partnerships continue to be permitted to make campaign contributions.

A violation of the ordinance is a misdemeanor, with penalties of up $2,500 in fines and six months in jail.

The ordinance was passed as an emergency measure, making the changes effective immediately.

The Phoenix City Council approved the creation of an ethics commission to independently investigate complaints of ethical violations against elected officials and other city leaders.

Members will focus specifically on corruption-related issues, such as potential violations of Phoenix’s gift policy as well as other possible conflicts of interest among elected officials.

The commission will be comprised of five residents of varying political affiliations: Democrats Louie Lujan and Patricia Sallen; Republicans Jose Samuel Leyvas III and Cheryl Pietkiewicz; and unaffiliated member Peter Schirripa.

State Rep. Ryan Martinez announced he will resign on September 1.

This announcement comes after Martinez pleaded guilty to two felony DUI charges from nearly a year ago.

Martinez would have been subjected to suspension and potentially expulsion from the House if convicted.

Martinez has represented House District 39 since 2016.

Gov. Kevin Stitt is expected to call a special election to fill the vacancy.