Louisiana House moves to prioritize student mental health with new waiver bill

The House Education Committee of the Louisiana Legislature convened on May 7, 2025, to discuss several key legislative proposals aimed at addressing health and safety concerns in educational settings.

The meeting began with a discussion on House Concurrent Resolution 13, introduced by Representative Elk, which seeks to address health risks associated with extreme heat during sporting events. Elk highlighted alarming statistics from the previous year, noting that over 70 individuals required medical treatment due to heat-related issues at games. He emphasized the need for games to start after 6:00 PM in September to mitigate these risks, stating, “I don’t want to wait and see something happen.” The resolution aims to set a precedent for other schools to prioritize safety, particularly at LSU, the state's flagship university. The committee unanimously moved to report HCR 13 favorably, indicating strong support for the initiative.

Following this, the committee turned its attention to House Bill 202, presented by Representative Boyd. This bill proposes a privacy waiver that would allow college students to authorize their institutions to contact parents in the event of a mental health emergency. Boyd explained that current laws prevent schools from reaching out to parents without student consent, even in critical situations. He noted the rising mental health crisis among college students and the importance of parental involvement during emergencies. The bill aims to provide a mechanism for students to grant permission for such contact at registration, thereby enhancing support systems for students in distress.

Committee members engaged in a thorough discussion regarding the implications of the bill. Concerns were raised about the responsibilities of university staff in recognizing mental health issues and the potential liability involved. Boyd reassured members that the bill would not impose liability but would facilitate communication when necessary. The committee expressed general support for the bill, recognizing the importance of addressing mental health issues in higher education.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity of both legislative measures, reflecting a commitment to improving health and safety standards in Louisiana's educational institutions. The committee's actions signal a proactive approach to safeguarding the well-being of students and attendees in both athletic and academic environments.