Provides for the Louisiana State Health Care Profession Institute. (8/1/14) (RE INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Impact
The law seeks to address necessary improvements in health care services by recommending legislative changes based on ongoing research and public feedback. It empowers the institute to delve into the current scope of practices for various health care professionals and propose reforms to outdated or inequitable regulations. The annual reports generated by the institute will serve to keep the legislature informed and may accompany proposed bills to facilitate legislative action on these recommendations. The establishment of the council aims to enhance collaboration among health care professionals and the legislature, potentially leading to more informed decision-making regarding public health policy.
Summary
Senate Bill 649, also known as the Louisiana State Health Care Profession Institute Act, introduces the Louisiana State Health Care Profession Institute, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and relevance of health care professions within the state. This new institute will operate as an official research agency under the Louisiana Legislature and will be supported by a council composed of representatives from various health care boards, legislative bodies, and the community. The establishment of this institute is poised to streamline health care regulations and promote improvements in health care practices.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB 649 is generally positive, with proponents viewing the institute as a crucial step toward modernizing health care practices and regulations in Louisiana. By establishing a dedicated body to focus on research and recommendations, supporters believe that the state can better address the evolving needs of its health care system. However, any contention primarily revolves around concerns regarding the effectiveness of the council and whether it will adequately represent diverse opinions across the health care spectrum, particularly from smaller practice groups or underrepresented health professions.
Contention
Despite the bill's overall favorable impression, some stakeholders express skepticism about the council's composition and its ability to truly reflect the breadth of health care professions in Louisiana. Critics emphasize the importance of ensuring that minority reports are adequately considered and that the council's recommendations do not overlook critical constituents, particularly during discussions affecting fundamental aspects of health care delivery. The successful implementation of SB 649 hinges on balancing the interests of established health care entities while considering the input of various professionals across the health care domain.
Provides for nurse practitioners and licensure by the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners. (1/1/14) (2/3 - CA7s2.1(A)) (OR INCREASE SG EX See Note)
Provides relative to the merging of the Professional, Personal, Consulting and Social Services Procurement Code with the Louisiana Procurement Code. (See Act) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Consolidates the State Board of Examiners of Psychologists and the Louisiana Licensed Professional Counselors Board of Examiners into the Louisiana Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board. (See Act)
Requests the Louisiana State Law Institute to establish a special committee to study the feasibility of extending child support beyond the age of majority.
Urges and requests a joint subcommittee to study the coordination of care for persons receiving mental health services in community-based and institutional settings
Requests the Dept. of Economic Development to study cybersecurity issues faced by businesses in compliance with the Cybersecurity Framework Standards promulgated by the National Institute of Standards and Technology