SB191 would allow computer science to replace the language requirement in TOPS for students graduating after 2026, but the law could still be vetoed by Governor John Bel Edwards.

Senator Sharon Hewitt (front center) seated with colleagues in the Louisiana State Senate, 2022 Regular Session (Télé-Louisiane).

Will McGrew, CEO & Editor in Chief, Télé-Louisiane

In the final day of its 2022 Session, the Louisiana House of Representatives approved the Conference Committee report for SB191 authored by Senator Sharon Hewitt by a vote of 54 to 41. The Senate had unanimously approved the report earlier today.

The bill, which allows computer science to replace foreign language classes for students graduating in 2026-27 and afterwords, now heads to Governor John Bel Edwards’ desk for a signature or veto.

Despite proponents’ claims that students will have the choice between CS and language classes, language educators point out that School Districts and high schools will be financially incentivized to terminate language teachers and classes for cheaper online computer science offerings. Télé-Louisiane has reviewed correspondence to local educational authorities by computer science service providers taking advantage of the new context created by the bill.

ULL student Annie Bates and French immersion educator Lindsay Smythe Doucet discussed this core fiscal critique as well as other negative economic, educational, and cultural impacts of SB191 in op-ed’s for Télé-Louisiane. Smythe, Télé-Louisiane, and other advocates including Matt Diez (President of Louisiana Parents for French Immersion) and immersion expert Terri Hammatt communicated these concerns directly to Senators and Representatives in Baton Rouge.

While it eventually passed both Houses, SB191 mobilized strong opposition in the French-speaking community in the House of Representatives and across the State. Representative Mike Huval and Representative Beryl Amedée played key roles in particular, and nearly all of the Acadiana Delegation opposed the final version of the Bill along with a handful of members from the Orleans Delegation and Black Caucus.

Language education supporters are encouraged to contact Governor Edwards to share their views on SB191 ahead of his decision on a signature or veto in the coming days.