Provides for the transfer of functions of La. Rehabilitation Services from the Dept. of Social Services to the La. Workforce Commission and the Dept. of Health and Hospitals (EN +$100,000 SD EX See Note)
Impact
If enacted, HB 1198 will modify existing laws regarding the operation of small business concessions by ensuring that individuals who are blind receive priority in vending operations on state property. By facilitating access to necessary resources and training through the new centralized entities, the bill aims to provide a more effective support system for the blind. Furthermore, it establishes the Blind Vendors Trust Fund to finance programs and initiatives designed to assist licensed blind vendors, potentially improving their economic outcomes.
Summary
House Bill 1198 aims to transfer the functions of the Louisiana Rehabilitation Services from the Department of Social Services to the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Department of Health and Hospitals. This bill emphasizes improving the delivery of services to individuals who are blind by centralizing vocational training and rehabilitation efforts under the Workforce Commission. Changes in the administration are intended to streamline processes and enhance program availability for the blind, encouraging economic independence and self-sufficiency.
Sentiment
The bill has garnered a mix of support and criticism. Proponents argue that it is a critical step forward in enhancing the quality of life for individuals who are blind, providing them with better access to training and business opportunities. Meanwhile, some opponents express concerns over the potential implications of shifting services and worry about how these changes might affect the operational efficiency and quality of existing programs under the supervision of new agencies.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the adequacy of resources allocated to the newly designated agencies and how the transition will affect current services. Critics also question whether the emphasis on economic security and business operations may detract from holistic care and social support services that blind individuals often rely on. Thus, the implementation of HB 1198 will require careful monitoring to ensure it successfully meets the needs of the blind community without compromising their access to essential services.
Abolishes the Department of Health and Hospitals and the Department of Social Services and creates the Department of Health and Social Services (OR DECREASE GF EX See Note)
Transfers certain family and support programs from the Department of Children and Family Services to the Louisiana Workforce Commission and renames Louisiana Workforce Commission to Louisiana Works (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Abolishes the Department of Health and Hospitals and the Department of Children and Family Services and creates the Department of Health and Social Services (OR DECREASE GF EX See Note)
Requires the departments of health and hospitals, social services, and education to delegate certain hearing and adjudication functions to the division of administrative law (RE SEE FISC NOTE SD EX)
Requires the departments of health and hospitals, social services, and education to delegate certain hearing and adjudication functions to the division of administrative law (OR SEE FISC NOTE SD EX)
Creates the Dept. of Health and Hospitals and Children and Family Services, abolishes the Dept. of Health and Hospitals (DHH) and the Dept. of Children and Family Services (DCFS), and creates separate entities within the new department as successors to the abolished departments (RE INCREASE See Note)
A bill for an act transferring the division of vocational rehabilitation services from the department of workforce development to the department of education.
An Act Implementing The Governor's Budget Recommendations Concerning The Transfer Of Functions From The Board Of Education And Services For The Blind And The Commission On The Deaf And Hearing Impaired To The Departments Of Education And Social Services.
Transfers governance and control of state hospitals from LSU to human services districts and authorities of the state and provides for delivery and financing of health services by such districts and authorities (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Provides relative to elderly affairs; creates the Department of Elderly Affairs, places the Louisiana Executive Board on Aging in the department, and provides for allocation of funds for programs for the elderly (RE SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Establishes a pilot initiative for training and education to serve certain recipients of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits (EN DECREASE FF RV See Note)