Committee advances 'Survivor Privacy Act' after press‑association warning about overbroad language

Representative Boyd presented HB 1012 as a substitute bill intended to let survivors of sexual assault request removal of identifying information from online publications to reduce barriers to reporting and cooperating with law enforcement. "This is the survivor privacy act," the sponsor said, framing it as a tool to help victims feel safe pursuing justice.

Senator Carter voiced support and moved to report the bill. Scott Sternberg of the Louisiana Press Association registered opposition on the record, saying he supported protecting victims but warning that HB 1012 as written could criminalize truthful publication and sweep in innocuous mentions. Sternberg urged an "intent" requirement so that those who publish innocuous, true information would not be criminally prosecuted.

Committee members acknowledged the concern and directed sponsors to work with stakeholders to refine the bill’s language before it reaches the Senate floor. The committee reported HB 1012 favorably to the floor with the sponsor waiving closing remarks.

The record shows no floor vote in committee; HB 1012 now awaits floor scheduling and any technical fixes requested by the press association and committee members.