Louisiana 2020 1st Special Session

Louisiana Senate Bill SCR12

Introduced
6/9/20  
Introduced
6/9/20  
Refer
6/9/20  
Report Pass
6/11/20  
Passed
6/17/20  
Engrossed
6/18/20  
Refer
6/22/20  

Caption

Creates the Drug and Specialty Courts Commission.

Impact

The enactment of SCR12 signifies a proactive approach to addressing substance abuse issues in Louisiana. The commission is tasked with analyzing current operations and results of existing drug courts, developing plans for increased participant screenings, assessing costs associated with program enhancements, and making recommendations for fund allocation. This initiative underscores the importance of treatment and rehabilitation rather than punitive measures, which is expected to lead to more sustained recovery for individuals with addiction issues and contribute to lowered crime rates related to substance abuse.

Summary

SCR12, introduced by Senator Ward, establishes the Drug and Specialty Courts Commission in Louisiana aimed at optimizing the use of opioid settlement funds. This resolution is a response to the ongoing opioid epidemic that has significantly impacted public health and increased crime rates in the state. By forming this commission, the legislation seeks to study and evaluate how these funds can be effectively utilized to expand and enhance drug and specialty court programs that provide essential early intervention and treatment for individuals with substance use disorders who become entangled in the criminal justice system. The intent is to reduce recidivism and improve outcomes for participants in these programs.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR12 appears largely supportive, with many stakeholders recognizing the necessity of addressing the opioid crisis and the beneficial role of drug and specialty courts. Legislative discussions indicate a consensus that more coordinated efforts are needed to utilize the expected settlement funds in a way that directly benefits affected communities. However, it can be noted that while there may be broad support for the commission's intentions, there remains concern over the execution and effectiveness of the proposed measures in reaching those who are most in need of help.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the actual distribution of opioid settlement funds and the effectiveness of drug courts in general. Critics of drug courts argue that they can sometimes perpetuate a cycle of dependency rather than providing the full spectrum of treatment needed for recovery. Thus, while SCR12 aims to set the foundation for an improved approach to substance abuse, ongoing oversight and evaluation will be crucial to ensure that the intended objectives are fully realized without unintended negative consequences.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA SB145

Provides relative to mandatory drug testing, screening, and assessment for drug and specialty court participation for certain offenders. (See Act) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD EX See Note)

LA HB633

Provides relative to mandatory drug testing, screening, and assessment for drug and specialty court participation for certain offenders (OR NO IMPACT See Note)

LA HB3

Provides relative to mandatory drug testing, screening, and assessment for drug and specialty court participation for certain offenders (Item #10) (REF SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)

LA HCR113

Establishes the Commission on Preventing Opioid Abuse

LA HB73

Relative to harm reduction, substance misuse, and the governor's commission on alcohol and drug abuse prevention, treatment, and recovery.

LA HB1835

Concerning Specialty Court Programs; And To Update And Clarify The Law Concerning Drug Court, Mental Health Court, Veterans Court, And Dwi/bwi Specialty Court Programs.

LA HB534

Drug Intervention Courts; standardize references.

LA HB623

Drug Intervention Courts; standardize references.

LA HB1075

Commissions and committees.

LA SR559

Recognizing the Webb County Specialty Drug Courts for their service to the community.

Similar Bills

LA SCR87

Requests the Louisiana Board of Pharmacy to study and make recommendations regarding the use of the terms "specialty drug" and "specialty pharmacy".

LA HCR23

Recognizes April 9, 2018, as Louisiana Drug and Specialty Court Day at the state capitol and commends the Louisiana Supreme Court Drug and Specialty Court Office and the Louisiana Association of Drug Court Professionals

LA SCR117

Commends the Louisiana Supreme Court on the successful implementation of specialty drug courts and requests information on implementation and expansion of other specialty courts.

LA HCR83

Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to create a task force to study, identify, and make recommendations to address the specialist physician shortage in the state

LA HCR97

Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to continue the task force to study, identify, and make recommendations to address the shortage of specialist physicians in this state

LA SB383

Provides for the sale and monitoring of ammunition for use in a firearm. (8/1/18)

LA HCR11

Requests a study to make recommendations regarding behavioral health courts

LA SCR4

Repeals administrative licensing requirements relative to residential specialty classifications.