Louisiana Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)

Cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, and businesses in Louisiana are not immune. From ransomware to data breaches, the risks are real, and the legal consequences can be costly. Understanding Louisiana cybersecurity laws is essential for keeping your organization compliant, secure, and trusted by your customers. Below, we’ll outline the most important cybersecurity laws that affect Louisiana businesses and the steps you can take to stay protected.

Louisiana Cybersecurity Laws

Louisiana Database Security Breach Notification Law (La. Rev. Stat. § 51:3071 et seq.)

The Louisiana Database Security Breach Notification Law requires businesses to notify affected individuals and the Louisiana Attorney General within 60 days of discovering a data breach that compromises personal information. Notifications must include the type of data involved and details on remedial actions taken. Businesses that fail to comply may face civil penalties.

Louisiana Insurance Data Security Law (La. Rev. Stat. § 22:2501 et seq.)

Based on the NAIC Insurance Data Security Model Law, this regulation applies to insurance companies and licensees operating in Louisiana. It requires organizations to maintain a written information security program, conduct regular risk assessments, and report cybersecurity incidents to the Commissioner of Insurance within 72 hours of detection.

Louisiana Computer Crimes Law (La. Rev. Stat. § 14:73.1 et seq.)

This statute criminalizes unauthorized access to computer systems, data theft, and digital tampering. Offenses include hacking, phishing, and introducing malware into computer systems. Penalties range from fines to imprisonment depending on the severity of the offense.

Louisiana Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (La. Rev. Stat. § 9:2601 et seq.)

Louisiana recognizes electronic records and signatures as legally valid. Businesses using digital contracts must maintain authentication controls and secure data storage methods to prevent unauthorized access or modification.

Federal and Industry-Specific Cybersecurity Regulations That Affect Louisiana Businesses

Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS)

PCI DSS applies to all Louisiana businesses that accept or process credit card payments. It requires encryption, access control, and routine network security assessments.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

HIPAA applies to Louisiana healthcare providers and their business associates. It mandates safeguards to protect personal health information (PHI) and requires breach notifications for compromised medical data.

Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA)

Financial institutions in Louisiana must comply with GLBA, which mandates secure handling of customer financial information and employee training on data protection.

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Although a European law, GDPR applies to Louisiana businesses that collect or process data from EU citizens. It requires explicit consent and grants individuals the right to control their personal data.

Cybersecurity Requirements for Financial Services Companies (NYDFS 23 NYCRR 500)

Louisiana financial institutions with operations in New York must comply with NYDFS cybersecurity standards, including encryption, continuous monitoring, and incident reporting.

NIST Cybersecurity Framework

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework is widely adopted by Louisiana businesses across energy, manufacturing, and healthcare industries. It provides best practices for managing cyber risk through five key functions: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Act

Under the FTC Act, Louisiana businesses must implement reasonable security practices and avoid misrepresenting their cybersecurity measures. The FTC can enforce penalties for negligent data protection.

Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)

COPPA applies to Louisiana businesses that collect data from children under 13. It requires verified parental consent and restrictions on how children’s personal data is used or shared.

Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX)

Publicly traded companies in Louisiana must comply with SOX, which enforces strong internal controls and safeguards to prevent data manipulation in financial reporting.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

FERPA protects student records for Louisiana educational institutions, requiring written consent before releasing personally identifiable information.

Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act (CIRCIA)

CIRCIA requires Louisiana critical infrastructure entities, such as energy, chemical, and transportation sectors, to report major cyber incidents to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) within 72 hours.

CAN-SPAM Act

The CAN-SPAM Act regulates commercial emails nationwide, including in Louisiana. It requires accurate sender details, truthful subject lines, and a visible opt-out option.

Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS)

Louisiana defense contractors must comply with DFARS cybersecurity requirements aligned with NIST SP 800-171 to protect controlled unclassified information.

Section 5 of the FTC Act (Unfair or Deceptive Practices)

Section 5 holds Louisiana businesses accountable for deceptive or negligent cybersecurity practices that expose consumers to harm.

More Louisiana Cybersecurity Laws to Be Aware Of

Louisiana has taken steps to improve its cybersecurity posture through initiatives like the Louisiana Cybersecurity Commission, created to enhance statewide cyber resilience. The commission collaborates with government agencies, private industry, and educational institutions to strengthen cyber defense strategies and promote workforce development.

Businesses are encouraged to develop written cybersecurity policies, train employees regularly, and adopt standards like NIST or ISO 27001 to demonstrate “reasonable security practices” under Louisiana law.

Conclusion

Staying compliant with Louisiana cybersecurity laws is essential for every business that handles sensitive or personal data. By following the state’s breach notification requirements, implementing robust security programs, and adopting national standards, organizations can protect data, prevent legal consequences, and strengthen customer confidence.

If your business needs help meeting Louisiana cybersecurity requirements, we provide solutions designed to protect your data and ensure ongoing compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana Cybersecurity Laws

1. What is Louisiana’s main cybersecurity law?
   The Louisiana Database Security Breach Notification Law (La. Rev. Stat. § 51:3071) is the state’s primary cybersecurity statute, requiring breach notifications within 60 days.
2. Who enforces cybersecurity laws in Louisiana?
   The Louisiana Attorney General’s Office oversees enforcement of data breach and consumer protection laws, while the Commissioner of Insurance handles insurance sector compliance.
3. What is the Louisiana Insurance Data Security Law?
   This law requires insurance companies to maintain written cybersecurity programs, conduct risk assessments, and report incidents within 72 hours to the Commissioner of Insurance.
4. Does Louisiana have specific requirements for data disposal?
   Yes. Businesses must take reasonable steps to destroy or permanently erase personal data once it is no longer needed.
5. How can Louisiana businesses strengthen their cybersecurity compliance?
   By conducting annual risk assessments, implementing multi-factor authentication, encrypting sensitive data, and following frameworks such as NIST or CIS Controls.

Read More Cybersecurity Laws by State:

Florida Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)

Ohio Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)

Virginia Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)

North Carolina Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers should consult qualified legal counsel for advice specific to their organization or situation.