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HB 320

CRIME/SEX OFFENSES: Creates the crime of unlawful exposure by an inmate (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Gabe Firment

Louisiana HB 320 criminalizes genital exposure by incarcerated inmates, creating a new offense to address disruptive prison behavior.

Effective date: 08/01/2026.
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Bill Summary · HB 320

Legislative bill overview

HB 320 creates a new criminal offense in Louisiana specifically targeting inmates who expose their genitals to others while incarcerated. The bill establishes unlawful exposure by an inmate as a distinct crime, presumably with its own penalties and classification separate from existing indecent exposure laws.

Why is this important

Prison safety and inmate conduct are significant operational and legal concerns for correctional facilities. This legislation addresses disruptive or harassing behavior within prisons that corrections staff argue existing laws may not adequately cover, while raising questions about how it applies to the unique environment of incarceration.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and clarity: Whether the law applies only to exposures to staff, other inmates, or visitors; and whether intent/sexual gratification requirements are specified or if mere exposure suffices
  • Redundancy with existing law: Questions about how this differs from current indecent exposure statutes and whether a separate inmate-specific crime is necessary rather than enhanced penalties under existing frameworks
  • Constitutional considerations: Potential First Amendment and cruel/unusual punishment concerns depending on how broadly the offense is written and what penalties attach

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

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