Louisiana Senate Bill SR142

Louisiana 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/25/15
• Passed: 5/26/15

Caption

Commends Sue Bernie upon her retirement from the East Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney's Office.

Impact

Throughout her career, Bernie played a crucial role in creating a supportive legal environment for sexual assault victims. She was instrumental in the establishment of the Baton Rouge Children's Advocacy Center, which has provided a child-friendly space for young victims to receive interviews by law enforcement and child protection workers. Her actions have impacted state laws, particularly by helping to remove the spousal exception from the state's rape statute in 1990, thereby broadening legal protections for victims and enhancing the framework for prosecuting sexual crimes in Louisiana.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 142 commends Sue Bernie for her retirement from the East Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney's Office, recognizing her extensive contributions to public service and the legal field. Bernie has had a remarkable career spanning more than three decades, specializing in the prosecution of sexual crimes and advocating for victims of abuse. The resolution reflects the state's gratitude for her years of dedicated work in seeking justice for vulnerable populations, notably children and victims of sexual assault.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SR142 is one of appreciation and respect for Sue Bernie's service. Legislative discussions highlight her competence and commitment to justice, as well as her role in championing the rights of sexual assault victims. Her contributions have garnered recognition not only within the legal community but also from organizations dedicated to advocacy against sexual violence, indicating strong support for both her work and the resolution itself.

Contention

While SR142 focuses on commending an individual, it underscores significant advancements in legal protections for victims of sexual assault attributed to Bernie's efforts. Acknowledging her accomplishments may also serve to prompt discussions about the continuing challenges faced by such victims and the need for ongoing legislative support to improve justice outcomes and support services in Louisiana. Thus, while there is no direct contention present in this resolution itself, underlying issues related to sexual assault advocacy remain critical topics.