The U.S. population grew at a rate of just 0.1% in 2021. That is a slower rate than in any other year since the founding of the nation. Covid-19, declining birth rates, and international migration all played roles in this nationwide decline, but in Louisiana, the decline was exacerbated even further by the effects of climate change. Louisiana had the fifth highest population loss in the nation in 2021, losing more than 27,000 citizens.

Experts say this quick decline in population is directly correlated with Hurricanes Laura and Ida, but is compounded by rising insurance rates, crime, and a stagnating job market in Louisiana. Is this the beginning of a worrisome trend, or an anomaly? Louisiana Spotlight takes a deep dive into the numbers; what they mean for the future of our state, and for its citizens. airing Monday, August 29, 2022 at 8:00pm statewide on LPB and Wednesday, August 31 at 8:00 PM on WLAE in New Orleans.

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Helping us explore the issues are:

• André Moreau - Host, Anchor of Louisiana: The State We're In
• Allison Plyer - Chief Demographer, The Data Center
• Nic Hunter (R) - Mayor of Lake Charles
• Simone Maloz - Campaign Director, Restore The Mississippi Delta
• Cashauna Hill - Executive Director of the Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center (LaFHAC)
• Congressman Garret Graves (R) - LA - 6th District
• Stephen Barnes, Ph.D. - Director, Kathleen Blanco Public Policy Center
  

Louisiana Spotlight is the evolution of the longstanding LPB public affairs program Louisiana Public Square. This new format allows viewers to explore complex issues in a deeper, more personal way, with stories told by the very people facing the challenges head-on.

Our Host & Panelists: