Louisiana Senate Bill SR88

Louisiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/25/22
• Refer: 4/26/22
• Report Pass: 5/4/22
• Passed: 5/9/22

Caption

Requests the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services to enact policies relative to truant children who may be trafficked.

Impact

If enacted, SR88 would direct the Department of Education to take proactive measures in locating these vulnerable populations among truant students. This would involve developing strategies to contact these children and address their specific needs through appropriate services. Such services might include mental health support, substance use treatment, and medical care, thereby contributing to a comprehensive approach to preventing human trafficking among minors.

Summary

Senate Resolution 88 urges the Louisiana Department of Education to implement policies aimed at identifying and providing assistance to truant children who may be victims of human trafficking. The resolution highlights the correlation between truancy and the risk of trafficking, emphasizing that children who are frequently absent from school often face increased vulnerabilities. This relationship is supported by research from the United States Department of Education, which indicates that such children may also have experienced prior abuse or neglect.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SR88 appears to be supportive among legislators and advocacy groups that focus on children's welfare and protection from exploitation. Proponents of the resolution recognize the urgency to address the issue of human trafficking among youths, particularly in vulnerable communities. However, discussions may arise regarding the resources required to implement such policies effectively and ensure that the educational environment is conducive to the needs of students at risk.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise around the capacity of the Department of Education to effectively enact and enforce the proposed policies, considering the already limited resources available for addressing issues related to truancy and child protection. Additionally, discussions may focus on whether the measures proposed are sufficient or if they address the larger systemic issues surrounding trafficking and student welfare, such as poverty, lack of family support, and educational inequity. The resolution suggests a move toward a more engaged educational framework but also raises questions about legislative reach and the integration of educational and child welfare policies.