This bill amends R.S. 17:416 regarding the discipline of students in public schools, specifically addressing the possession of certain substances on school property. It establishes that students in grades six through twelve found guilty of possessing firearms, knives with blades over two and a half inches, or illegal narcotics will face a minimum expulsion of two complete school semesters, a reduction from the previous four semesters. Additionally, the bill introduces a provision that allows for the expulsion of students found guilty of possessing marijuana or its derivatives only after a second or subsequent occurrence. First-time offenders of marijuana possession will not face the same expulsion requirements as those for more serious offenses.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that local school boards collect and report data annually to the state Department of Education regarding expulsions. This report will include the number of students expelled for first and subsequent offenses, as well as the number of students who return to a regular school setting after completing their expulsion period at an alternative educational placement. These changes aim to provide a clearer framework for student discipline while also ensuring accountability and data transparency in the expulsion process.

Statutes affected:
HB384 Engrossed: 17:416(C)(2)
HB384 Enrolled: 17:416(C)(2)
HB384 Act 497: 17:416(C)(2)