LAPLACE, LA – Declaring that “enough is enough,” Rep. Sylvia Taylor on Tuesday called for what she described as common sense Mardi Gras bead reform, citing years of legislative inaction on what she referred to as “high-velocity parade culture.”
The proposed bill would create the crime of reckless throwing from a parade float, carrying penalties of up to three years in prison and fines up to $2,000, depending on injuries sustained and whether or not the victim was a Trump supporter. Taylor stressed the measure is not about banning beads, but about ensuring they are thrown “responsibly and within reason.”
“No one is trying to take away your beads,” Taylor said. “We are having a serious conversation about why anyone on a float should to have the ability to throw several dozen beads at parade goers in short bursts.”
In addition to criminal penalties, the bill proposes designated bead-free zones along parade routes. These areas, likely near intersections, reviewing stands, and anyone holding a clipboard, would prohibit the throwing of beads, doubloons, stuffed animals, and what the draft describes as “novelty projectiles.” Supporters say the zones would create safe spaces for spectators who prefer to experience Mardi Gras without the constant threat of airborne plush livestock or one of those coconuts.
Advocates say the legislation closes what they describe as the “parade throw loophole,” which currently allows riders to distribute beads, doubloons and foam footballs without any velocity standards or crowd-distance guidelines.
Critics argue the bill unfairly targets law-abiding float riders while doing little to address rogue uncles with a history of high speed, deadly accurate sidearm throws.
Taylor dismissed those concerns, noting that responsible tossers should have nothing to fear.
“If even one child can enjoy a parade without taking a moon pie to the temple,” she said, “then we have a moral obligation to act.”
