Louisiana House Bill HB765

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/4/16
• Refer: 3/4/16
• Refer: 3/14/16

Caption

Includes victims of sexual assault within the housing protections afforded to victims of domestic violence

Impact

The implications of HB 765 on state laws are significant, as it would transform how protections are viewed and implemented under Louisiana's housing laws. By integrating provisions for victims of sexual assault into existing domestic violence laws, the bill aims to provide a more comprehensive safety net for individuals facing violent circumstances. This could enhance the support framework for victims and ensure they have better access to safe housing without the fear of eviction or discrimination due to their victim status.

Summary

House Bill 765 aims to extend housing protections currently available to victims of domestic violence to also encompass victims of sexual assault. This bill proposes to amend existing laws to broaden the definition of 'domestic abuse' to include rape and introduces the concept of a 'qualified third party' as a sexual assault advocate. These changes are intended to ensure that individuals who face such abuses can receive adequate support and protections in housing situations that might otherwise be jeopardized by their circumstances.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding the bill have largely been positive, showcasing a strong bipartisan agreement on the necessity of expanding protections for vulnerable populations. Advocates for the bill hail it as a crucial step in recognizing and addressing the issues faced by sexual assault survivors. However, there may be some concerns regarding the implications for landlords and whether they are adequately equipped to handle the additional complexities introduced by the new definitions and protections.

Contention

While the bill's intent to protect victims is widely supported, there could be contention regarding the practical implementation of these provisions. Questions may arise around how to properly define terms such as 'qualified third party' and the role of sexual assault advocates in housing situations. Additionally, landlords and property managers might express concerns about their responsibilities under the amended framework, especially in relation to the documentation of claims made by victims of sexual assault.