Senate Bill No. 178, introduced by Senator Jenkins, aims to amend and reenact certain provisions of Louisiana's education law regarding student discipline and the rights of school employees. The bill expands the authority of school employees, allowing them to take disciplinary action against students who violate school rules or disrupt the educational process, alongside teachers. It also prohibits principals and administrators from discouraging or retaliating against school employees for taking such actions. Additionally, the bill modifies the composition of discipline policy review committees established by city and parish school boards, increasing the membership from sixteen to seventeen by adding a paraprofessional elected by their peers.

Furthermore, the bill outlines specific rights for school employees, including the right to work in a safe environment, protection from frivolous lawsuits, and respect for their professional judgment in disciplinary matters. It mandates that school boards provide a copy of these rights to all employees at the beginning of each school year. The proposed law emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe and orderly educational environment and ensures that school employees are informed of their rights and protections under the law. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for gubernatorial action.

Statutes affected:
SB178 Original: 17:416(A)(1), 17:8(A)(1)