The bill amends R.S. 17:416(C)(2) to update the grounds for mandatory expulsion of students in grades six through twelve. It specifies that students found guilty of possessing firearms, knives with blades longer than two and a half inches, illegal narcotics, tobacco, alcohol, or vaping products on school property, buses, or at school-sponsored events may face expulsion. The bill removes the previous age restriction of sixteen years and instead applies to all students in the specified grades. Additionally, it introduces a provision that students who are suspended for a third time within the same school year for any offense (excluding dress code or tardiness) will be recommended for expulsion.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the role of public school superintendents in the expulsion process and allows for the possibility of readmission on a probationary basis under specific conditions. If a student violates the terms of their probation, they can be removed from school without a hearing and placed in an alternative school setting. The amendments aim to enhance school safety and discipline by establishing clearer guidelines for expulsion and the responsibilities of school officials.

Statutes affected:
SB358 Original: 14:416(C)(2)
SB358 Engrossed: 17:416(C)(2)
SB358 Enrolled: 17:416(C)(2)
SB358 Act 337: 17:416(C)(2)