News & Announcements

April 23, 2026 | From City of New Orleans

Sewerage and Water Board Reform Legislation Overwhelmingly Passes House of Representatives

NEW ORLEANS – Today, the Louisiana House of Representatives passed House Bill 1243, formerly HB 573, sponsored by state Rep. Stephanie Hilferty of New Orleans. This bill gives the New Orleans City Council broader authority over the Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) and has been a priority for Mayor Helena Moreno as she looks to address recurring issues with SWBNO. If the bill becomes law, the legislation will allow the city council to pass ordinances to gain oversight over SWBNO on matters like budgets, project priorities, and contract approval.

“We can’t keep doing things the same and expect different results that’s why this reform is necessary,” Mayor Moreno said. “Giving the city more local control will begin to put us in line with other parishes and will bring the level of transparency, accountability and outcomes the people of New Orleans deserve.”

The bill passed the House overwhelmingly with a vote of 89-8. HB1243 now heads to the state Senate.