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HB 355

ETHICS/CODE: Provides for an exception to post-employment restrictions for sexual assault nurse examiners

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Delisha Boyd and 13 co-sponsors

Louisiana exempts Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners from post-employment lobbying restrictions, allowing immediate private sector transition after state employment ends.

Signed by the Governor. Becomes Act No. 184.
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Bill Summary · HB 355

Legislative bill overview

HB 355 creates an exception to Louisiana's post-employment restrictions that typically prevent former state employees from working as lobbyists or consultants for entities they previously regulated. Specifically, it exempts Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) from these cooling-off period restrictions, allowing them to transition directly into related professional roles after leaving state employment.

Why is this important

Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners are specialized medical professionals who conduct forensic examinations and provide crucial evidence collection in sexual assault cases. This carve-out recognizes the specialized nature of SANE work and addresses potential workforce shortages by removing barriers that might discourage experienced SANEs from continuing their expertise in the private sector or with advocacy organizations. However, the exemption removes a standard ethics safeguard designed to prevent conflicts of interest.

Potential points of contention

  • Conflict of interest concerns: Removing post-employment restrictions eliminates cooling-off periods that typically prevent former employees from immediately leveraging insider knowledge or relationships for commercial gain
  • Narrow vs. broad precedent: Creating specialized exceptions to ethics rules for specific professions could invite pressure from other occupational groups seeking similar exemptions, potentially eroding the rule's overall effectiveness
  • Lack of transparency details: The bill text doesn't specify what types of post-employment positions are covered or whether there are any alternative safeguards (like recusal requirements) in place

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

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