Louisiana Senate Bill SSR1

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

Caption

Requests the Senate Committee on Education to study the feasibility of having legislative oversight over certain disciplinary decisions made by the Louisiana High School Athletic Association.

Impact

If the Senate Committee on Education conducts the requested study, it could lead to significant changes in how athletic associations operate in Louisiana, particularly in establishing a system of checks and balances for student athletes. Providing a legislative oversight mechanism may enhance accountability within the LHSAA and instill a sense of fairness in disciplinary proceedings. Moreover, the results of the study could set a precedent for how similar organizations are monitored and regulated in terms of their governance and disciplinary actions.

Summary

SSR1 is a legislative study request aimed at assessing the feasibility of implementing legislative oversight over disciplinary actions taken by the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA). The bill is precipitated by a specific incident in which disciplinary measures were imposed following an altercation between high school baseball teams. The need for this study arises from concerns regarding the fairness and consistency of disciplinary decisions made by the LHSAA, emphasizing the importance of aligning such actions with the association's own constitution and regulations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SSR1 appears to lean toward ensuring fairness and accountability within high school athletics. Supporters of the study request often express concerns that current disciplinary actions lack transparency and may not reflect justice or equity for student athletes. Meanwhile, there may be apprehension among some members of the LHSAA regarding potential interference in their governance, which could lead to a sentiment of resistance against legislative oversight.

Contention

The contention in discussions around SSR1 potentially revolves around the perceived need for legislative intervention versus the autonomy of the LHSAA. Proponents advocate for oversight to protect the interests of young athletes and to ensure that policies are enacted in a fair and just manner, while opponents may argue that such oversight undermines the association's ability to govern itself independently and could complicate the governance of interscholastic athletics.