House Bill No. 297 aims to expand the provisions for early lease termination in Louisiana to include situations involving stalking and cyberstalking, in addition to domestic abuse. The bill amends existing law to redefine "domestic abuse" to encompass stalking and cyberstalking as defined in relevant statutes. It also modifies the definition of "qualified third party" by removing the requirement for employees of community-based shelters to possess a master's degree in social work, allowing licensed professional counselors, prosecuting attorneys, and investigating law enforcement officers to qualify if they have personal involvement in related cases.

Furthermore, the bill retains the existing process for a lessee or their household member to request early termination of a lease due to domestic abuse but adds provisions for victims of stalking or cyberstalking. If the incidents did not occur on the leased premises, the lessee can provide a written declaration explaining why continuing to reside there may threaten their safety. The Certification of Domestic Abuse form is also updated to include references to stalking and cyberstalking, ensuring that victims can document their experiences comprehensively.

Statutes affected:
HB297 Original: 9:1(B)(2)
HB297 Engrossed: 9:1(B)(2)
HB297 Reengrossed: 9:1(B)(2)