U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy visited Alexandria to discuss economic development initiatives and highlight the impact of recent federal legislation on the region. During his visit, Cassidy addressed members of the Rotary Club of Alexandria, focusing on how the One, Big, Beautiful Bill and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) can support local growth.
“People in Central Louisiana are optimistic about the future,” said Dr. Cassidy. “They know the One, Big, Beautiful Bill and my infrastructure bill will help businesses expand and put money in worker’s pockets. Combining local leadership with taking advantage of these laws will drive central Louisiana forward.”
The One, Big, Beautiful Bill has made permanent certain tax relief measures for small businesses originally introduced by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. These provisions allow small businesses to deduct capital expenditures from their federal tax returns. The legislation also provides tax relief for workers by including deductions on tips and overtime pay, extends the Child Tax Credit, and permits most seniors to deduct Social Security taxes from their federal returns.
In terms of infrastructure investment, Cassidy secured $65 billion for high-speed broadband through the IIJA; Louisiana was allocated $1.35 billion last August as part of this effort. Recent grants include over $4.8 million awarded to Alexandria International Airport for improvements to its south apron and more than $5.7 million to extend Runway 18-36. In January, a $320,000 grant was given to the Rapides Area Planning Commission for transportation grid upgrades in Rapides Parish.
Mike Upton, President of the Rotary Club of Alexandria, welcomed Cassidy before his remarks at the club meeting.
“We are honored to welcome Senator Bill Cassidy to the Alexandria Rotary Club,” said Mr. Upton. “His service and leadership at the national level reflect a deep commitment to Louisiana and the people he represents. We are privileged to have him share his time and insights with our club, and we extend our gratitude for his dedication to public service.”
Cassidy also toured UTLX (Union Tank) Manufacturing’s Alexandria facility where he met employees and observed tank car production operations.
“Louisiana workers are the best in the world,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Union Tank knows that, which is why they produce rail cars here that ship goods across America. This is proof that there’s no better place for manufacturing than Louisiana.”
UTLX employs 366 people at its Alexandria location with a payroll totaling $31 million in 2024; non-salaried workers earn an average hourly wage above $28.
Randy McDougal, General Manager for UTLX, led Cassidy on a tour of their plant.
“Senator Cassidy’s visit underscores the importance of strong partnerships between policymakers and manufacturers,” said Mr. McDougal. “We shared how our team builds industry leading tank cars, drives innovation, and contributes to the local economy, while also discussing the challenges and opportunities facing our industry.”
