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 443 Engrossed 2018 Regular Session Smith
Abstract: Requires a healthcare provider to notify law enforcement when a person age seventeen
or younger presents for treatment of a sexually-oriented criminal offense.
Present law requires that upon seeking treatment for a sexually-oriented criminal offense, a victim
has the right to refuse to report the incident to law enforcement.
Present law requires that if the victim of the offense does not wish to report the offense, that a
hospital or healthcare provider shall treat him in the standard manner, with tests and examinations
specific to the crime explained and offered to the victim but not mandated.
Proposed law retains present law.
Present law requires that a hospital or healthcare provider report a sexually-oriented criminal offense
to law enforcement if the victim is 16 years of age or younger. Proposed law increases the age from
16 to 17.
(Amends R.S. 40:1216.1(A)(4)(a))