Senate Bill No. 98, introduced by Senator Kleinpeter, amends the definition of "educator" in Louisiana law concerning prohibited sexual conduct between educators and students. The bill specifically adds school resource officers and security guards to the existing definition, which previously included administrators, coaches, instructors, paraprofessionals, student aides, teachers, and teacher aides. This change aims to enhance the protection of students by ensuring that all individuals in positions of authority within schools are held to the same standards regarding sexual conduct.
The bill retains the core provisions of the existing law while expanding the scope of who is considered an educator. The amendments will take effect on August 1, 2026, reinforcing the state's commitment to safeguarding students from inappropriate relationships with school personnel.
Statutes affected: SB98 Original: 14:4(B)(1)
SB98 Engrossed: 14:4(B)(1)