Louisiana 2023 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB72

Introduced
3/8/23  
Introduced
3/8/23  
Refer
3/8/23  
Refer
4/10/23  
Refer
4/10/23  
Report Pass
4/20/23  
Report Pass
4/20/23  
Engrossed
4/25/23  
Engrossed
4/25/23  
Refer
4/26/23  
Refer
4/26/23  
Report Pass
5/15/23  
Report Pass
5/15/23  
Enrolled
5/25/23  
Enrolled
5/25/23  
Chaptered
6/6/23  
Chaptered
6/6/23  
Passed
6/6/23  

Caption

Provides relative to the designation of military and veteran friendly campuses

Impact

The legislation amends existing provisions to increase the duration of the military and veteran friendly designation from one year to two years. Furthermore, it establishes an annual renewal application process for institutions, which will encourage ongoing improvement and accountability in their support for veteran students. By mandating interim reports during non-renewal years, the bill ensures that institutions remain committed to serving the needs of veterans and continuously assess their efforts in providing an accommodating educational environment.

Summary

House Bill 72 aims to enhance the recognition of postsecondary educational institutions in Louisiana as 'military and veteran friendly campuses.' The bill grants the Louisiana Board of Regents the authority to establish additional tiers of distinction for institutions that exhibit excellence in serving military and veteran students. This initiative seeks to improve the support and resources available for veterans pursuing higher education, thereby fostering an inclusive academic environment that acknowledges their service.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB72 is positive, with broad support expressed among legislators and advocacy groups focused on veteran affairs. Supporters argue that the bill reinforces the importance of higher education institutions actively cultivating a supportive environment for veterans. This is seen as a necessary step in addressing the unique challenges veterans face when transitioning from military to civilian life, particularly in education.

Contention

While the bill has garnered significant support, it could face scrutiny regarding the specific criteria that the Board of Regents will establish for the additional tiers of recognition. Critics may raise concerns about the adequacy of the measures and resources that institutions must allocate in order to meet these new standards. Furthermore, as the bill promotes a statewide recognition effort, there may be discussions on the effectiveness of such recognition in actually improving services for veterans versus simply serving as a marketing tool for institutions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HB485

Provides for the designation of a public postsecondary education institution as a "Governor's Military and Veteran Friendly Campus"

LA SB27

Provides relative to military and veteran friendly postsecondary education policies. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

LA HB54

Provides for the designation of a postsecondary education institution as a "Purple Star Campus" (EN NO IMPACT See Note)

LA SB1199

Relating to development of a pilot program of the Texas Veterans Commission to designate municipalities as Veteran and Military Friendly Cities.

LA SB255

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

LA SB1097

Veterans: military and veterans: gender-neutral terms.

LA SB364

Provides relative to free expression on college campuses. (gov sig)

LA HB0067

Title 71a - Veterans and Military Affairs

LA SB230

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

LA AB107

Licensure: veterans and military spouses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.