ENROLLED
2024 Regular Session
HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 40
BY REPRESENTATIVE BAYHAM
A RESOLUTION
To urge and request the Vital Records Registry to effectuate the provisions of R.S. 40:34.2
regarding the recordation of the correct surname on birth certificates.
WHEREAS, in Hispanic culture, each person has two surnames with the first
surname coming from the father and the second surname coming from the mother; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of Act No. 645 from the 2022 Regular Session was to allow
Hispanic families to follow their customs regarding surnames; and
WHEREAS, R.S. 40:34.2(2)(e) provides that if the mother or the father whose
surname may be given to a child possesses both a paternal and maternal surname according
to national custom or practice, the surname of the child may be consistent with the national
custom or practice of the mother or father; and
WHEREAS, the Vital Records Registry is to respond to statutory mandates related
to the collection, maintenance, issuance, and preservation of birth, death, fetal death,
marriage, and other vital events; and
WHEREAS, it is important for individuals to uphold and embrace their cultural
customs.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the House of Representatives of the
Legislature of Louisiana does hereby urge and request the Vital Records Registry to
effectuate the provisions of R.S. 40:34.2 to allow Hispanic families to register their surnames
consistent with their customs.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this Resolution be transmitted to the
State Registrar Office of Vital Records.
SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Page 1 of 1