Rep. Josh Carlson

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the use of career coaches alongside school counselors to help public middle and high school students and their parents create personalized graduation plans. The law establishes that these professionals can work together or independently to guide students through their educational goals. By adding career coaches to the list of eligible advisors, the measure expands the support options available to students without changing the core requirement of developing an individualized plan.

Maddy summaryThis bill requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to update science and health education standards to include the science of human growth and development, specifically covering prenatal growth and fetal development. It asks the board to provide age-appropriate instructional materials, such as high-definition ultrasound videos or computer-generated animations, on its website to support teaching these topics. The resolution also requires the board to submit a written report to state education committees by March 1, 2027, detailing any actions taken in response to these requests. This is a non-binding concurrent resolution that urges the board to consider these changes rather than mandating them.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Louisiana laws governing prekindergarten programs by removing the requirement that nonpublic prekindergarten programs be licensed as early learning centers, while applying child safety and welfare standards to all school-based prekindergarten programs. The legislation allows the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to approve nonpublic prekindergarten programs and authorizes the board to adopt emergency rules when necessary. Key provisions include revised child-to-staff ratios that vary by age group and a phased implementation schedule, with stricter ratios taking effect starting in the 2027-2028 school year. The bill also clarifies definitions for "camp" and "early learning center" to distinguish between standalone programs and those attached to schools.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries rules to update regulations for managing Chronic Wasting Disease in deer populations. It establishes specific management zones around infected areas, prohibiting supplemental feeding and baiting in the inner zone while allowing it under strict conditions in the outer buffer zone. The legislation also defines clear procedures for creating, modifying, or removing these zones based on surveillance results and requires the use of identifiable boundaries like roads and waterways.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows Louisiana public university and college systems to charge tuition and fees for distance education courses that are comparable to traditional in-person classes. It applies to undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs offered entirely online and gives the institution's board of supervisors the authority to set these charges. The law also permits schools to charge proportional fees for part-time students and during summer sessions or other academic periods. This change affects students enrolled in online programs at Louisiana State University, Southern University, the University of Louisiana System, and Community and Technical Colleges.

Maddy summaryHB 941 invalidates certain indemnity clauses in oil and gas industry contracts that would shield operators from liability for injuries caused by their own negligence. It specifically targets agreements covering well operations, drilling, and related services, making provisions that require operators to pay for their own negligence unenforceable. The bill establishes a clear process for obtaining "additional insured" coverage: contractors must request a written premium quote directly from the operator's insurer, pay the quoted group rate, and receive written notice of renewal terms. Crucially, it limits contractors' liability for deductibles to $100,000 per incident, requiring operators to cover any excess costs, while invalidating agreements that force operators to pay the first $100,000. This directly affects oil and gas contractors, operators, and insurers engaged in Louisiana's mineral exploration and production activities.

Maddy summaryHB 636, the "Caleb Wilson Hazing Prevention Act," requires Louisiana public colleges and universities to prevent, report, and respond to hazing involving student organizations. It defines hazing broadly (including physical brutality, dangerous activities, or substance consumption) and mandates annual hazing education for all students starting fall 2027, plus specific orientation education for new students. The bill also requires student organizations to report hazing incidents to both law enforcement and their institution, and institutions must document all actions and share full details with law enforcement. These provisions directly affect public postsecondary institutions, their students, and all student organizations, including fraternities, sororities, and clubs.

Maddy summaryThis resolution expresses the condolences of the Louisiana House of Representatives regarding the tragic loss of eight children in Shreveport, Louisiana. It specifically names the eight victims and describes their personal qualities to honor their memories. The bill is a symbolic gesture intended to offer comfort to the families and friends of the deceased.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a resolution that expresses the Louisiana House of Representatives' condolences for the tragic death of eight children in Shreveport, Louisiana. It directly affects the families and loved ones of the deceased by offering official sympathy from the legislative body. The resolution lists the names of the children and briefly describes their positive qualities and school affiliations. It does not create any new laws or change existing policies, as it is purely a symbolic gesture of mourning.

Maddy summaryThis resolution honors Ty Hebert, a student worker for the Acadiana Legislative Delegation, on the occasion of his graduation from Louisiana State University. It recognizes his specific contributions to the delegation office, including legislative review, community engagement events, and leadership roles within his fraternity. The document formally expresses appreciation for his work ethic and service but does not alter any laws or policies.