Louisiana House Bill HCR80

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/13/19
• Engrossed: 5/22/19
• Refer: 5/23/19
• Report Pass: 5/29/19
• Passed: 5/31/19

Caption

Establishes a study committee on policies concerning communication-related services for the deaf and hard of hearing in certain healthcare settings

Impact

HCR80 will impact state laws by fostering a more inclusive and accessible healthcare environment for the deaf and hard of hearing community. The establishment of a study committee ensures that decisions about communication policies will be informed by the community itself and backed by relevant stakeholders, including advocates and healthcare professionals. As the committee collaborates, it will generate recommendations that address specific communication needs, thereby potentially reshaping the policies governing healthcare access for these populations in Louisiana.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 80 (HCR80) urges the Louisiana Department of Health to establish a study committee focused on improving communication-related services for the deaf and hard of hearing in hospitals and nursing facilities. The bill seeks to ensure that individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing receive equitable access to healthcare, emphasizing the importance of effective communication during treatment. This resolution is grounded in both the increasing number of patients requiring these accommodations and the legal obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, mandating that healthcare facilities provide appropriate support for all individuals with disabilities.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment around HCR80 appears positive, with broad support for enhancing the rights and accommodations for the deaf and hard of hearing populations in healthcare settings. Legislative discussions indicate a commitment to improving healthcare equity and responsiveness to the diverse communication needs of these individuals. However, some concerns may arise regarding the implementation of the committee's recommendations, particularly if adequate resources and training are not prioritized.

Contention

One notable point of contention is the implementation timeline and the responsiveness of healthcare facilities to the committee's findings and recommendations. While there is strong support for the resolution, ensuring that the guidelines created effectively address the unique needs of the deaf community will be crucial. Additionally, the committee's ability to collaborate with various stakeholders and obtain the necessary allocations for changes in policy and training will be essential for the successful advancement of communication services.