Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

Louisiana Senate Bill SB404

Introduced
3/2/18  
Introduced
3/2/18  
Refer
3/2/18  
Refer
3/12/18  
Report Pass
4/4/18  
Report Pass
4/4/18  

Caption

Provides relative to sexual harassment prevention policies and training for public servants. (gov sig) (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

Impact

This legislation mandates that all agencies designate a Sexual Harassment Prevention Coordinator responsible for educating public servants on recognizing and preventing such behavior. Each public servant is required to undergo annual training, ensuring that they are well-informed about sexual harassment and the necessary reporting procedures. This legislation aims to standardize and enhance current practices across all state agencies, reinforcing a culture of accountability and responsiveness to harassment claims.

Summary

Senate Bill 404, known as the Louisiana Public Servants' Sexual Harassment Prevention and Training Act, is aimed at strengthening the policies and frameworks that facilitate the prevention and handling of sexual harassment within the state and local government workforce. The bill firmly establishes that sexual harassment undermines the dignity and rights of public servants and asserts the commitment of Louisiana's government to create a workplace free from harassment. It emphasizes the importance of reporting harassment, obligates immediate investigations, and enforces corrective actions against offenders.

Sentiment

The general sentiment towards SB 404 has been largely supportive, with advocates commending its efforts to empower victims and instill a sense of security in public employment. Many public servants welcome the enhanced training and resources, believing it will contribute to a healthier work environment. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the implementation of these standards and whether they can adequately address the complexity of each case. Critics argue that the effectiveness of the legislation hinges on the genuine commitment from agency heads and coordinators to enforce these standards actively.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB 404 include the adequacy of potential corrective measures for those accused of harassment and how reports of these incidents will be documented and made public. Some legislators have expressed concern about ensuring the confidentiality of victims while balancing the need for transparency in reporting. Additional discussions have focused on the training requirements and the need for resources to support agencies in properly executing the mandates set forth in the bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HB524

Requires policies prohibiting sexual harassment and annual training on preventing sexual harassment (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

LA SB447

Requires annual sexual harassment training for all public servants. (gov sig)

LA SB182

Provides for the participation of a sexual harasser in a settlement or judgment in a sexual harassment claim. (See Act) (EN SEE FISC NOTE OF EX See Note)

LA SCR107

Directs public agencies to provide sexual harassment education and training for its public servants.

LA AB547

Janitorial workers: sexual violence and harassment prevention training.

LA SB255

Provides relative to sexual assault on college campuses. (gov sig) (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)

LA HB1214

Provides relative to harassment, intimidation, and bullying in public schools (RE SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)

LA AB2079

Janitorial workers: sexual violence and harassment prevention training.

LA SB230

Provides relative to power-based violence on college and university campuses. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

LA AB1015

Discrimination and harassment prevention training.

Similar Bills

LA SB447

Requires annual sexual harassment training for all public servants. (gov sig)

LA HB524

Requires policies prohibiting sexual harassment and annual training on preventing sexual harassment (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

LA SB182

Provides for the participation of a sexual harasser in a settlement or judgment in a sexual harassment claim. (See Act) (EN SEE FISC NOTE OF EX See Note)

AL HB227

Ethics; laws pertaining to public officials and public employees revised

LA HB674

Provides for revisions to the Code of Governmental Ethics

LA SB221

Provides relative to massage therapy. (8/1/25) (EN +$82,200 SG RV See Note)

NJ A1464

Requires correctional police officers to wear body worn cameras and security camera systems to be installed in State correctional facilities.

NJ S2209

Requires correctional police officers to wear body worn cameras and security camera systems to be installed in State correctional facilities.