Louisiana House Bill HCR113

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/5/16
• Refer: 5/9/16
• Report Pass: 5/11/16
• Engrossed: 5/19/16
• Refer: 5/23/16
• Report Pass: 5/24/16
• Passed: 6/6/16

Caption

Establishes the Commission on Preventing Opioid Abuse

Impact

The commission is tasked with identifying the causes of opioid abuse, evaluating current practices, and recommending both short- and long-term strategies for prevention and treatment. This includes promoting the responsible prescribing of opioids and exploring alternatives to punitive measures for treating individuals suffering from addiction. The commission is expected to foster collaboration among healthcare providers, law enforcement, and other stakeholders to enhance treatment accessibility, particularly for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women with substance abuse issues. By focusing on evidence-based practices, the bill aims to mitigate the negative effects of opioid addiction on Louisiana communities.

Summary

HCR113 establishes the Louisiana Commission on Preventing Opioid Abuse, which aims to address the growing crisis of opioid and heroin abuse in the state. The bill highlights the alarming statistics related to opioid addiction, including the significant rise in overdose deaths and the shift of users from prescription opioids to heroin. Recognizing opioid abuse as a public health priority, the resolution sets the stage for a comprehensive strategy that involves collaboration between various sectors, including healthcare providers and state agencies. It emphasizes the need for data-driven approaches to tackle the challenges posed by substance use disorders in Louisiana.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HCR113 appears supportive of establishing a dedicated body to handle the opioid crisis, reflecting a recognition of the severity and complexity of the problem. Stakeholders from the healthcare sector and public safety express a collective urgency for proactive measures and methodologies to combat addiction. While there may be concerns over implementation and funding, the general outlook favors a cooperative approach to effectively address the opioid epidemic in Louisiana.

Contention

One point of contention involves aligning the commission's strategies with existing healthcare regulations and funding mechanisms. Some parties may question the level of state intervention in addiction treatment versus local control and resources, especially concerning the availability of evidence-based alternatives to opioid prescriptions. Furthermore, there may be debates on the effectiveness and ethical implications of certain recommended measures, particularly around treatment protocols and the balance between public health strategies and criminal justice approaches.