DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of
the legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of
the law or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
Ritchie HB No. 421
Abstract: Amends the definition of a "treatment program" as used in the Post-Separation
Violence Relief Act to include a treatment program that has been ordered by the court.
Present law requires one or more parents to complete a treatment program prior to awarding
custody or allowing visitation when there is a history of family violence. Defines "treatment
program" as a course of evaluation and psychotherapy designed specifically for perpetrators of
family violence. Further requires the treatment program to be conducted by a licensed mental
health professional.
Proposed law retains present law and expands the definition to include any other treatment
program ordered by the court.
(Amends R.S. 9:362(7))