House Bill No. 406, introduced by Representative Mike Johnson, mandates the Louisiana Department of Education to conduct a comprehensive study on the direction and regulation of interscholastic high school athletics. The study will explore the feasibility of implementing a cooperative endeavor agreement with a nonprofit corporation to oversee these athletics, ensuring that the governance aligns with principles of fairness, impartiality, and responsiveness. The bill outlines specific components that the study must address, including potential nonprofit partners, a timeline for implementation starting in the 2028-2029 school year, funding considerations, and necessary legislative recommendations.

The Department of Education is required to submit a written report of its findings and conclusions to several legislative committees by March 1, 2027. This report must include details on potential nonprofit corporations for the cooperative agreement, a plan for action, funding and transitional considerations, and recommendations for legislation to fully implement the new regulatory framework for interscholastic athletics. The bill emphasizes the need for transparency and alignment with academic priorities in the governance of high school sports, addressing concerns about the current oversight by private entities.