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)]
HB 712 Engrossed 2016 Regular Session Jackson
Abstract: Provides that a student with an exceptionality, except a gifted or talented student, shall
be assigned to a school as requested by the parent if specified conditions are met.
Present law provides for the responsibilities of local education agencies in providing special
education and related services to students with exceptionalities as defined in present law.
Proposed law adds that a student with an exceptionality, except a gifted or talented student, shall be
assigned to a school as requested by the parent if all of the following conditions are met:
(1)The parent submits a written request to the local education agency responsible for the student
and the local education agency having jurisdiction over the school being requested including
a recommendation from licensed physicians who have treated the student during the year
prior.
(2)The local education agency responsible for the student and the local education agency having
jurisdiction over the school being requested by the parent enter into an agreement for the
assignment of the student to the requested school.
(3)The requested school is at least 10 miles from the school the student is assigned to and at
least 15 miles from the student's home.
(4)The requested school is located in a public school district that does not use a single
application and enrollment process for public school enrollment.
Present law defines "local education agency" as a public board of education or other public authority
legally constituted within La. for administrative control and direction of or to perform a service
function for public elementary or secondary schools in a city, parish, or other local public school
district or other political subdivision. The term includes an education service agency and special
schools and school districts and any other public institution or agency having administrative control
and direction of a public elementary or secondary school.
(Adds R.S. 17:1944(F))
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
The Committee Amendments Proposed by House Committee on Education to the original bill: 1. Add that a student with an exceptionality, except a gifted or talented student, shall be
assigned to a school as requested by the parent if certain conditions are met as specified
in proposed law.
2. Delete proposed law requirement that local education agencies, in accordance with
federal law and to the greatest extent possible, ensure that a student with an
exceptionality is educated in the school closest to the student's home regardless of the
school attendance zone requirements.