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HB 202

HIGHER EDUCATION: Provides for a privacy waiver relative to certain mental health information of postsecondary education students

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Regina Barrow and 25 co-sponsors

Louisiana law allows college students to voluntarily waive privacy protections for mental health records to enable sharing with campus staff and family members, effective August 1, 2025.

Signed by the Governor. Becomes Act No. 157.
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Bill Summary · HB 202

Legislative bill overview

HB 202 creates a privacy waiver mechanism allowing postsecondary education students to authorize disclosure of their mental health information to designated campus personnel or family members. The bill modifies existing FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) protections by enabling voluntary consent to share otherwise confidential mental health records maintained by colleges and universities.

Why is this important

Mental health crises on campuses have increased significantly, and delayed information-sharing between counseling centers and support staff can hinder timely intervention. This bill aims to facilitate communication while maintaining student privacy control, potentially improving campus safety response protocols and family notification during emergencies.

Potential points of contention

  • Informed consent standards: The bill doesn't specify what constitutes adequate disclosure to students about waiver consequences, raising concerns about whether students fully understand privacy trade-offs when signing waivers
  • Vulnerability to pressure: Students in crisis, or those influenced by parents/institutions, could be coerced into waiving protections they would otherwise maintain, particularly if waivers become conditions of enrollment or housing
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill doesn't clearly define which mental health information qualifies or limit who can receive disclosures, potentially allowing broader sharing than necessary for legitimate safety purposes

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

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