House Bill No. 682, introduced by Representative Dickerson, amends existing law to authorize the use of veterans as school resource officers in Louisiana. The bill expands the definition of "school resource officer" to include veterans who meet specific criteria, such as being honorably discharged from the Armed Forces, passing a background check, and completing required training. The amended law specifies that while veterans can serve in this capacity, they will not be considered peace officers and will not have arrest powers unless separately commissioned.

Additionally, the bill enacts a provision that ensures charter schools are included under the same requirements for school resource officers as public schools. This means that charter schools must also comply with the stipulations set forth in R.S. 17:416.19 regarding the qualifications and roles of school resource officers. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance school safety by leveraging the skills and experience of veterans in educational environments.

Statutes affected:
HB682 Original: 17:19(B)(1)
HB682 Engrossed: 17:19(B)(1)