Louisiana

After a massive campaign to have Louisiana legislators view Crime Scene New Orleans, the state implements legislation to train and certify crime scene cleaners.

A widespread advocacy movement showed Crime Scene New Orleans to State Senators and congress people alike. "Not until one finds themselves in a tragic situation themselves do they think about who cleans up after a crime scene. We didn't know about it," says state senator Mary Ladreux.

First responders, such as policemen, medics and firemen, knew all along of the burden they were leaving families to clean. But legally they were not allowed to recommend a business that specialized in cleaning due to conflict of interests. Now, as of April 2005, the state will recognize and regulate the industry and give referrals to families.