Election 2026: What is Louisiana’s Amendment 3?

(The Center Square) — Louisiana voters will decide Nov. 3 whether to prohibit defendants convicted of certain aggravated crimes against children from being released on bail while appealing their convictions.

The proposal, appearing as Amendment 3 on the statewide ballot, would place additional restrictions on post-conviction bail.

Currently, state law allows judges to consider post-conviction bail in certain circumstances, meaning some defendants can remain free while pursuing appeals.

The proposed amendment would remove that option for people convicted of qualifying aggravated offenses involving minors.

A vote in favor would establish the prohibition, while a vote against would preserve judicial discretion under existing law.

The restriction would apply after conviction, rather than to defendants awaiting trial who are presumed innocent.

The amendment is among several proposed changes to Louisiana's constitution appearing on the November ballot. Each requires majority approval from voters.