This bill amends and reenacts certain provisions of R.S. 17:3138.7 concerning the Advisory Council on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Louisiana. The council's membership is expanded from twenty-four to twenty-six members, with new additions including the chancellor of Southern University and Agricultural and Mechanical College and a student body president from a public or private HBCU in Louisiana. Additionally, an at-large member appointed by the council chairman is introduced, who will serve a term of no more than two years. The bill also modifies the reimbursement policy for council members, allowing the Board of Regents to cover travel and lodging expenses for the student member attending council meetings.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the council's responsibilities, which include advising the commissioner of higher education on enhancing HBCUs' capabilities and identifying methods to improve state support for these institutions. A new duty is added for the council to share best practices regarding campus safety, emphasizing the importance of creating a secure environment for students at HBCUs. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the support and operational framework of the Advisory Council on HBCUs in Louisiana.

Statutes affected:
HB142 Original: 17:7(B)
HB142 Engrossed: 17:7(B)
HB142 Reengrossed: 17:7(B)
HB142 Enrolled: 17:7(B)
HB142 Act : 17:7(B)