Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

Louisiana Senate Bill SR139

Introduced
6/21/11  

Caption

Requests that DCFS, DOE, DHH, the Children's Cabinet and its advisory board work together with the BrightStart staff to carry out the work of BrightStart.

Impact

The resolution asserts that the ongoing work of BrightStart necessitates a synergistic effort among various state agencies. By designating BrightStart as Louisiana's Early Childhood Advisory Council under the Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act of 2007, the state aims to improve the quality, availability, and coordination of early childhood services. This effectively binds state agencies to align efforts in supporting developmental programs, which could potentially lead to enhanced outcomes for children as they transition to formal schooling.

Summary

Senate Resolution 139 urges and requests collaboration among the Department of Children and Family Services, Department of Education, Department of Health and Hospitals, the Children's Cabinet, and BrightStart staff to enhance early childhood programs in Louisiana. Highlighting the crucial development period before age five, the resolution emphasizes the importance of early investments in children’s cognitive, social, and emotional growth, asserting that such measures will lead to healthier, more productive citizens and long-term economic benefits for the state. The resolution reflects a strong legislative recognition of the significance of early childhood education as a cornerstone for societal health and economic success.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SR 139 appears to be positive, with a strong acknowledgment of the merits of investing in early childhood education. The resolution demonstrates a collective commitment by the Senate to prioritize the developmental requirements of young children, aligning with broader trends emphasizing early education's role in public policy. A cooperative approach is favored by the legislative body, suggesting an understanding that interconnected efforts are essential for yielding significant impact in children's lives.

Contention

While the resolution seems to foster a unified directive, potential points of contention could arise regarding the execution of collaborative efforts among multiple agencies. Challenges may include differing priorities within the involved departments and the allocation of resources. Ensuring that BrightStart successfully fulfills its role as the coordinator among these varied entities and addresses the specific needs of Louisiana’s children will be critical, and any misalignment could hinder the resolution's intent.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

LA HR121

Urges and requests that state agencies participating in BrightStart coordinate policy, budget planning, infrastructure, and services and report progress to the House Committee on Health and Welfare

LA HR99

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LA SR100

Requests BrightStart, Louisiana's Early Childhood Advisory Council, to study the merits of, and possible plans for, expansion of the evidence-based Positive Parenting Program (Triple P) and to report to the legislature.

LA HR82

Urges and requests the Louisiana Legislative Auditor to investigate the partnership between the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services and the Louisiana Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies

LA HB100

Provides relative to school readiness assessment (EN +$50,701 GF EX See Note)