WeVote

Bill

Bill

HB 384

STUDENT/DISCIPLINE: Provides relative to disciplinary penalties for certain public school students found to be in possession of certain substances on school property

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Marcus Bryant and 1 co-sponsor

HB 384 adjusts school discipline penalties for Louisiana students caught possessing specific substances on campus, effective August 1, 2025.

Becomes Act No. 497 without the Governor's signature.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 384

Legislative bill overview

HB 384 modifies Louisiana's school discipline policies regarding student possession of certain substances on school property. The bill adjusts penalties and procedures that public schools must follow when students are found with controlled substances or other prohibited items on campus.

Why is this important

School discipline policies directly affect thousands of Louisiana students' educational records, future opportunities, and legal standing. These rules determine whether infractions result in suspensions, expulsions, alternative programs, or law enforcement involvement—outcomes that can significantly impact a student's academic trajectory and life prospects.

Potential points of contention

  • Substance definition ambiguity: The bill references "certain substances" without fully specifying which items are covered, potentially creating inconsistent enforcement across school districts
  • Racial/socioeconomic disparities: School discipline policies historically show disparate enforcement by race and income level; unclear whether this bill addresses or exacerbates existing inequities
  • Balance between rehabilitation and punishment: Questions whether the penalty framework prioritizes student rehabilitation and education or stricter punitive measures that remove students from classrooms

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

Sign in to ask a question.