WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 501

COLLEGES/UNIVERSITIES: Requires public postsecondary education institutions to post information on campuses promoting STI prevention, screening, and treatment to be known as the Campus Awareness Initiative. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SG EX)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Delisha Boyd and 17 co-sponsors

Public colleges must display LDH-approved STI awareness posters with a link to STI resources in student health areas.

Signed by the Speaker of the House.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 501

Summary of Louisiana SB 501 (2026) – Campus Awareness Initiative

Purpose

To require public postsecondary education institutions in Louisiana to display STI (sexually transmitted infection) prevention, screening, and treatment information on campus. The initiative is designed to raise awareness and direct students to official STI resources.

Key Provisions

  • New Statute Created: Adds R.S. 17:3384.1, establishing the Campus Awareness Initiative.
  • Poster Requirements:
    • Public postsecondary institutions must display signs approved or provided by the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) or a designated nonprofit organization.
    • Signs must include text: “Worried about STIs? Just Check!”
    • A website link to LDH’s STI information and resources must be printed on the sign.
    • Signs must incorporate color graphics and be printed on durable material sized at least 16 inches by 20 inches.
    • Text must be in a large, easily readable font.
  • Placement of Signs:
    • Signs must be displayed by student health center staff in the patient admission area, waiting room, and consultation room.
  • Funding and Donations:
    • LDH is not required to spend its own funds to purchase signs.
    • LDH may use donated funds or accept donated signs, provided donations are approved by LDH.
  • Definition:
    • “Designated nonprofit organization” means a private, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization designated by the LDH Secretary to assist in implementing this section.
  • Effective Date: The act becomes effective upon the governor’s signature or the expiration of the gubernatorial action period without signature (unless vetoed and subsequently approved by the legislature, in which case it takes effect the day after approval).

Who Is Affected

  • Primary: Public postsecondary education institutions in Louisiana (colleges and universities).
  • Secondary: The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) and its designated nonprofit partner(s) responsible for producing and distributing the signs.
  • Students and Campus Community: Individuals visiting student health centers will encounter the posters and be directed to LDH STI resources.

Administrative and Timeline Aspects

  • Implementation Timeline: Effective upon gubernatorial action (signature or expiration without signature). No phase-in or substitution period is specified; once effective, institutions must comply with posting requirements.
  • Enforcement/Compliance: The bill outlines required actions but does not specify penalties or oversight mechanisms within the text provided. Compliance is expected through LDH coordination and campus health center operations.

Additional Notes

  • The bill is titled the “Campus Awareness Initiative.”
  • The LDH may opt to fundraise or accept donated signs, with donor signs needing LDH approval.
  • The signage standard emphasizes accessibility (larger font, clear language) and visibility in relevant campus health spaces.

This summary covers the bill’s main purpose, substantive provisions, affected parties, and procedural aspects. If you’d like, I can provide a side-by-side comparison with current law or prepare a one-page briefing for stakeholders.

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

Sign in to ask a question.