Louisiana Schools Can Now Accept Political Advertising

(KMDL-FM) If you think Louisiana's political climate is already muddy enough, then just wait and see what could be waiting for you at an upcoming high school football game or choral concert. There is often a fine line between education and politics, but beginning this year, the state of Louisiana has blurred that line substantially.

The issue is, of course, money. The schools need it, the politicians have it, and there needs to be a way where those politicians can exert their political influence on the educational process. No, wait, that's not the plan, that's probably the reality, but the plan, that's different. Let me explain.

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In Louisiana's larger communities, many school athletic programs and organizations have a large economic base from which they can draw support. I think many businesses make it a point to be a contributor to an athletic booster club or a band booster organization, or any school group or organization that needs help.

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And as a parent, you've probably done a cake bingo, book fair, bake sale, po-boy sale, or car wash in your day, haven't you? This could certainly lighten your load, but what is the real cost?

This change in policy, at least on paper, should be a huge benefit for school systems and school districts that come from less populated areas of the state. Since those areas of the state don't have as large an economic base to raise funds, it's only natural that booster clubs would turn to elected officials for support.

Are Louisiana Schools Required to Accept Political Advertising?

Participation in the program is not mandatory. School systems and school districts can choose to accept or not accept political advertising. The schools will also maintain jurisdiction over the rules and guidelines for political advertising.

Many schools are used as polling places, and yes, there is a law against political advertising during an election. If a school had political advertising displayed within 600 feet where votes are being cast, that advertising would have to come down.

But if voters were casting ballots in the school's gym and the political signs were across campus at the football stadium, then those advertisements would be allowed. Of course, we all know just how smoothly this would run on election day. And yes, that is sarcasm on full display.

Is "Equal Time" An Issue for Schools That Accept Political Advertising?

The one thing I do not see addressed is the issue of "equal time". Granted, that is usually a topic for advertising on the radio or television, but think about it. Space around a stadium is limited; there are only so many ads that can be placed there. What if one politician wants to buy them all and effectively shuts out his or her competition?

What if a candidate has a kid who's a star player on an opposing team? What if the members of the booster club don't "like" a candidate because he went to a rival school back in the day? You think I am being petty? Then you really don't know how high school athletics work in Louisiana.

What if factions from one political camp remove or damage signage from another political camp? Who decides which candidates get what placement in a school stadium, gym, sidewalk, or concession area?  I think all of their faces should be posted in the restrooms, but I am told I am quite cynical.

You don't have to be a lawyer to know the lawsuits will be coming, and the school systems will be caught in the middle. So, this truly could be a bad thing dressed as a good thing, which is usually the case when politics and education are mentioned in the same breath.