Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

Louisiana Senate Bill SB230

Introduced
3/3/16  
Refer
3/3/16  
Refer
3/3/16  
Refer
3/14/16  
Refer
3/14/16  
Report Pass
5/11/16  
Engrossed
5/18/16  
Refer
5/19/16  
Refer
5/19/16  
Report Pass
5/24/16  
Report Pass
5/24/16  
Enrolled
6/6/16  
Chaptered
6/17/16  
Chaptered
6/17/16  
Passed
6/17/16  

Caption

Provides relative to the Health Education Authority of Louisiana (HEAL). (8/1/16) (EGF SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

Impact

The bill significantly impacts state laws governing health education and facility management. By designating the HEAL as an entity within the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, it formalizes state oversight and support for health education initiatives. Furthermore, the bill empowers the authority to raise funds through issuing bonds, which can amount to up to eight hundred million dollars for the acquisition, construction, or improvement of healthcare facilities. The effective management of these resources is expected to enhance patient care and promote the state's health education framework.

Summary

Senate Bill 230, primarily focused on the establishment and operation of the Health Education Authority of Louisiana (HEAL), aims to enhance health care education and accessibility throughout the state. Its purpose is to coordinate and encourage the collaborative efforts of various public and private institutions in delivering high-quality medical services and educational opportunities. The intent is to elevate Louisiana's status in healthcare, both regionally and nationally, by supporting institutions dedicated to health science and biomedical research.

Sentiment

Sentiment around SB230 appears to be largely supportive, highlighting a shared goal of improving health services in Louisiana. Legislative discussions emphasize the importance of investing in healthcare infrastructure to benefit citizens, particularly in underserved areas. However, there may exist underlying concerns regarding the appropriateness of centralized authority in health education and potential bureaucratic hurdles that could arise from the new governance structure.

Contention

While the support for SB230 is prominent, contention exists regarding how the bill might affect local healthcare initiatives and governance. Critics may argue that consolidating authority under a statewide entity could limit local health facilities' autonomy, potentially leading to a disconnected approach in addressing community-specific health needs. Additionally, there may be unease regarding the management of funds generated from bond issues, emphasizing the necessity for careful oversight to ensure that these financial resources effectively support the intended health outcomes for Louisiana residents.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

LA HB418

Restructures the Health Education Authority of La. (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)

LA HB507

Restructures the Health Education Authority of La. (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)

LA SB113

Provides for certain insurance premium discounts. (gov sig)

LA SB249

Creates Louisiana Housing Corporation. (gov sig) (OR SEE FISC NOTE SG EX)

LA HB590

Creates the Louisiana Housing Corporation and consolidates state housing programs (OR INCREASE SG EX See Note)

LA SB269

Creates the Louisiana Housing Corporation. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SG EX See Note)

LA HB566

Establishes job order contracting as an alternative project delivery method applicable to deferred maintenance of public facilities by postsecondary education institutions for certain work types (EG NO IMPACT See Note)

LA SB102

Creates and provides for Louisiana Educational Workforce Training Fund to provide opportunities for educational training in the Louisiana Community and Technical College System. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD EX See Note)