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 administered by an individual
qualified by education, training, or experience in domestic violence treatment and
approved 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 similar
treatment program administered by an individual qualified by education, training, or experience
in domestic violence treatment and approved by the court.
(Amends R.S. 9:362(7))
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
Committee Amendments Proposed by House Committee on Civil Law and Procedure to the
original bill.
1. Added requirement that the treatment program be administered by an individual
qualified by education, training, or experience in domestic violence treatment.