Louisiana House Bill HB685

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10
• Report Pass: 5/5/10
• Engrossed: 5/13/10
• Refer: 5/17/10
• Report Pass: 6/7/10
• Enrolled: 6/14/10
• Vetoed: 7/2/10

Caption

Provides relative to the enrollment of certain children in attend BESE-approved adult education programs

Impact

The proposed changes would significantly impact state laws regarding education and attendance, particularly for students at risk of dropping out. By enforcing an age restriction, proponents argue the bill would help to maintain educational standards and encourage students to remain within the traditional school system. However, opponents express concern that the bill would limit critical educational opportunities for at-risk youth who could benefit from adult education programs, delaying their ability to complete their education and acquire necessary skills for employment.

Summary

House Bill 685 seeks to amend Louisiana’s educational laws by restricting enrollment in adult education programs for those under the age of 17. The bill aims to alter the existing conditions that allow students aged 16 to enroll in such programs if they meet certain criteria set forth by the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE). Currently, 16-year-olds can enroll with parental consent under specific circumstances such as economic hardship or incarceration. HB685 intends to prevent this enrollment unless a student meets particular legal conditions, essentially enforcing a minimum age of 17 for adult education participation.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB685 has been predominantly negative, especially among educators and advocates for at-risk youth. Critics are concerned that the legislation does not adequately consider the diverse needs of students who might require alternative educational pathways to succeed. They argue that by removing access to adult education, the bill could exacerbate dropout rates and hinder educational progress for many young people. Conversely, supporters believe that the intention behind the bill is laudable and aimed at improving long-term educational outcomes for students.

Contention

A key point of contention surrounding HB685 is its broad restriction on 16-year-olds from enrolling in adult education programs. Vetoed by the Governor, the reasoning pointed to the lack of a more targeted approach, preferring legislation that allows access to programs with proven records of student progress. This highlights a fundamental disagreement on how best to manage educational opportunities for youth, balancing between maintaining control over educational standards and providing flexible learning opportunities to meet individuals' needs. The legislative discussions underscore a need for a nuanced approach in supporting at-risk youth within educational frameworks.