RDCSB151 2709 3130
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)]
SB 151 Reengrossed 2021 Regular Session Barrow
Proposed law enacts a "Foster Youth's Bill of Rights" to be implemented through the policies
and practices of the Department of Children and Family Services for certain youth in foster
care in the state.
Proposed law enumerates rights for youth in foster care who are ages 14-18 involving
privacy; participation in planning for care including attending court hearings and case plan
meetings; a stable and supportive setting free from neglect, abuse, exploitation, or
discrimination; having medical and mental health needs met on a regular and timely basis;
meeting with the youth's caseworker, attorney, and CASA volunteer; access to materials
necessary for school and to further the youth's education; extracurricular activities; the
youth's cultural, religious, and ethnic traditions and belief systems; participation in the
Independent Living Skills Program within the youth's region; and the expression and voicing
of the youth's needs, concerns, and desires about foster care.
Proposed law provides that it shall be known as "The Louisiana Elite Advocacy Force Act"
or "The LEAF Act".
Effective upon signature of the governor or lapse of time for gubernatorial action.
(Adds R.S. 46:286.16)
Summary of Amendments Adopted by Senate
Committee Amendments Proposed by Senate Committee on Health and Welfare to
the original bill
1. Prohibits discrimination of any kind on the basis of the child's or his parent's
race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national,
ethnic, or social origin, property, disability, birth, or other status.
Senate Floor Amendments to engrossed bill
1. Names the Act "The Louisiana Elite Advocacy Force Act" or "The LEAF
Act".
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
The Committee Amendments Proposed by House Committee on Health and Welfare to
the reengrossed bill:
1. Revise proposed law providing for the right of a foster youth to be free from
discrimination by deleting a reference to the race, color, sex, language, religion,
political or other opinion, national, ethnic, or social origin, property, disability,
birth, or other status of a parent.
2. Make a technical change.
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