Louisiana House Bill HCR71

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/9/19
• Refer: 5/13/19
• Report Pass: 5/15/19
• Engrossed: 5/28/19
• Refer: 5/29/19
• Report Pass: 5/31/19
• Passed: 6/4/19

Caption

Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to issue regulations to allow the establishment of new opioid treatment programs and methadone dosing sites

Impact

By encouraging the development of new opioid treatment programs, HCR71 aims to address the alarming statistics related to opioid addiction in Louisiana. Specifically, it calls for the establishment of programs that provide comprehensive treatment involving medication-assisted therapies, integrated with essential healthcare services. The bill emphasizes the need for prioritizing rural parishes that have experienced higher rates of overdose deaths, thereby intending to create a more equitable healthcare system that addresses the unique challenges faced by these communities.

Summary

HCR71 is a legislative resolution urging the Louisiana Department of Health to develop regulations that facilitate the establishment of new opioid treatment programs across the state. The resolution comes in light of the escalating opioid crisis in Louisiana, which has seen a significant increase in opioid-related deaths and emergency department visits over recent years. The intention of the bill is to improve access to necessary treatment for individuals suffering from opioid use disorder, particularly in underserved rural areas where these services are lacking.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR71 is largely positive among supporters who view it as a critical step towards combating the opioid epidemic in Louisiana. The acknowledgment of the need for a robust treatment system resonates well with mental health advocates, healthcare providers, and lawmakers who are concerned about public health. However, there may also be some apprehension regarding the effective implementation of these new programs and their integration with existing healthcare infrastructures.

Contention

Although there wasn't significant opposition noted in the voting history of HCR71, the common points of contention in similar legislation often revolve around resource allocation and the effectiveness of treatment programs. Concerns include ensuring that the new programs will maintain quality standards and provide adequate care without overwhelming existing healthcare facilities. Moreover, stakeholders may debate the balance between expanding access to care and the necessity for stringent regulatory oversight to ensure patient safety and treatment efficacy.