ATHLETICS: Requires the state Dept. of Education to conduct a study and issue a report relative to interscholastic high school athletics

HB 406 requires Louisiana's Department of Education to study creating a new governance model for high school athletics, replacing the current system run by the private Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA). The study must examine how a cooperative agreement with a nonprofit corporation could ensure transparency, fairness, and compliance with public laws (like Open Meetings and Public Records) while aligning athletics with academic priorities. The report, due by March 1, 2027, must include potential nonprofits, implementation plans for the 2028-2029 school year, funding details, and legislative recommendations. This bill directly affects all public and private high schools receiving state funds in Louisiana.