Commends Lawrence and Varrie Player for being the longest married couple in Louisiana.
Impact
This resolution does not seek to amend current state laws but instead highlights the importance of marriage as an institution. It serves to celebrate the Players' commitment, which can inspire others in the community. While it does not create legal obligations, it promotes the values associated with marriage and family, which can positively influence social sentiments around these topics within Louisiana.
Summary
SCR21 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that commends Lawrence and Varrie Player from Benton, Louisiana, for being the longest married couple in the state for 2017. The Players, who have been married since 1935, embody values of commitment and love, having built a large family with eight living children, thirty-five grandchildren, and twenty-one great-grandchildren. Their marriage serves as a testament to enduring partnerships and has been recognized by the Louisiana Family Forum, an organization that honors long-lasting couples annually.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SCR21 is largely positive, as it fosters admiration for the Players' long-term commitment to each other. Legislators and the community celebrate their marriage as an example of devotion and love that transcends time. This resolution resonates well with constituents who value family and traditional marriage, making it a feel-good piece of legislation rather than one that stirs contention.
Contention
Given the nature of SCR21 as a commendation without legislative or policy changes, there are minimal points of contention. However, discussions regarding what constitutes a successful marriage and the recognition of diverse family structures may arise. Nonetheless, the resolution primarily aims to foster unity and respect rather than provoke debate.
Commends Ralph and Dorothy Richards of Slidell, Louisiana on eighty-one years of marriage and being named the longest married couple in Louisiana for 2011.
Commends Dr. Fred Lowery, retired pastor of First Baptist Church of Bossier City, Louisiana, and his wife, Leigh, on their dedication and faith, focusing especially on their longtime marriage and on his more than 50 years of preaching God's word.
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.