Senate Bill No. 206, introduced by Senator Miller, amends existing Louisiana law to include blood pressure testing as part of the required health screenings for students in public schools. The bill mandates that every city, parish, and local public school board conduct blood pressure tests alongside sight and hearing tests during the first semester of the school year or within 30 days of a student's late admission. These tests must adhere to the schedule established by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Additionally, school boards are required to keep records of these examinations, follow up on any identified deficiencies within 60 days, and notify parents or tutors if a pupil is found to have abnormal blood pressure.

The bill also extends these requirements to charter schools, which must now comply with the blood pressure testing regulations alongside existing mandates for hearing and vision screenings. The changes will take effect on August 1, 2026. The amendments to R.S. 17:2112(A) and 3996(A)(10) reflect the inclusion of blood pressure testing in the health screening protocols for students, ensuring a more comprehensive approach to student health in Louisiana schools.

Statutes affected:
SB206 Original: 17:2112(A), 17:3996(A)(10)