Louisiana -Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has announced a major restructuring of the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness, moving the agency under the control of the Louisiana National Guard. The decision, according to the governor, is aimed at cutting costs and streamlining emergency response efforts across the state.
As part of this transition, Brigadier General Jason Mahfouz has been appointed as the interim director of GOHSEP and will oversee the agency’s daily operations. Major General Thomas Friloux, the Adjutant General of the Louisiana National Guard, will provide overall oversight to ensure a smooth transition.
Governor Landry expressed his appreciation for the outgoing GOHSEP Director Jacques Thibodeaux, acknowledging the challenges he faced in the role. “Director Thibodeaux took on a challenging role and served our state with dedication under difficult circumstances. We deeply appreciate his service,” Landry stated.
The restructuring is part of Landry’s broader fiscal responsibility initiative, which aims to reduce government spending and improve operational efficiency. “As governor, I was elected with a commitment to cutting waste and streamlining government. By bringing GOHSEP under the National Guard, we have identified an opportunity to save millions while also ensuring that Louisiana is better prepared to respond to emergencies,” Landry said.
GOHSEP plays a critical role in Louisiana’s disaster response and emergency preparedness, working closely with local, state, and federal agencies to coordinate relief efforts during hurricanes, floods, and other crises. The National Guard has historically been a key player in disaster response, deploying personnel and resources in the wake of major emergencies.
By placing GOHSEP under the leadership of the National Guard, state officials hope to improve coordination between emergency responders and military personnel, ensuring a more efficient and effective response to future disasters.
The restructuring comes at a time when Louisiana continues to face challenges related to severe weather events and other emergencies. Landry emphasized the importance of leveraging the expertise and resources of the National Guard to strengthen the state’s resilience. “This move not only delivers significant cost savings but also aligns with my belief in the importance of relying more on our National Guard to enhance Louisiana’s ability to respond to disasters,” he said.
The transition process will be closely monitored, with Major General Friloux overseeing the integration of GOHSEP into the National Guard’s command structure. Further details on the financial impact of the restructuring and the timeline for full implementation are expected in the coming weeks.