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Bill

HB 738

COLLEGES/UNIVERSITIES: Provides relative to student disciplinary proceedings (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Bayham and 14 co-sponsors

HB 738 revises Louisiana college and university student disciplinary proceedings, modifying due process protections and adjudication protocols in conduct investigations.

Effective date: 08/01/2026.
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Bill Summary · HB 738

Legislative bill overview

HB 738 modifies procedures and protocols governing how colleges and universities in Louisiana conduct student disciplinary proceedings. The bill addresses the formal processes, due process protections, and evidentiary standards used when institutions investigate and adjudicate student conduct violations. The specific provisions are referenced in the fiscal note but establish new or revised requirements for institutional discipline.

Why is this important

Student disciplinary proceedings directly affect educational access and career prospects, making procedural fairness a significant concern. Universities balance institutional safety and community standards with individual student rights, and changes to these processes can shift power dynamics between students and institutions. Clear, consistent procedures also protect institutions from legal liability while ensuring accountability in conduct decisions.

Potential points of contention

  • Due process scope: Whether the bill strengthens or weakens student procedural protections (notice, evidence presentation, appeal rights) compared to current practice
  • Standard of proof: The evidentiary threshold required for discipline (preponderance of evidence vs. clear and convincing evidence) affects both student vulnerability and institutional decision-making
  • Institutional autonomy vs. state oversight: Whether new requirements represent appropriate state regulation or encroachment on university governance independence

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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