Provides for the rehiring of nonlicensed persons by certain health care providers required to temporarily close during a public health emergency. (gov sig)
Impact
The implementation of SB 53 is poised to have a significant impact on employment practices within the health care sector in Louisiana. By removing the criminal history check requirement, the bill aims to facilitate a smoother transition back to operational status for health care providers, particularly those providing adult day health care services. This change is anticipated to aid these providers in quickly rebuilding their staff and resuming services that may have been interrupted during the pandemic.
Summary
Senate Bill 53 addresses the rehiring of nonlicensed individuals by certain health care providers who were required to cease operations due to public health emergencies, specifically related to COVID-19. The bill allows for the employment of these nonlicensed persons without the need for a criminal history and security check under specific conditions. These conditions include that the individual was employed by the provider before the public health emergency and is rehired within a stipulated timeframe following the provider's return to operations.
Sentiment
The general sentiment around SB 53 is largely supportive among legislators and health care providers who argue that the bill will alleviate staffing challenges brought on by the pandemic. However, there may be concern from advocacy groups about the relaxation of criminal background checks, which could lead to apprehensions regarding patient safety and standards of care. Nonetheless, the sentiment reflects a consensus on the necessity of expediting the rehiring process to ensure that essential health care services are not disrupted.
Contention
A notable point of contention surrounding SB 53 involves the implications of exempting these health care providers from conducting thorough background checks for nonlicensed employees. While supporters emphasize the need for immediate staffing solutions in response to the pandemic, critics argue that easing these requirements could compromise the quality of care. The discussion may also touch upon broader themes of regulatory compliance and accountability in health care employment practices during emergencies.
Provides relative to prohibitions on employment by certain health care providers of licensed ambulance personnel and nonlicensed persons who are convicted of certain criminal offenses
Provides access for patients of hospitals and residents of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other adult residential care homes to members of the clergy who volunteer to minister and provide religious sacraments and services, counseling, and mental health support during COVID-19 and other public health emergencies. (gov sig) (Item #28)
Provides access for patients of hospitals and residents of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other adult residential care homes to members of the clergy who volunteer to minister and provide religious sacraments and services, counseling, and mental health support during COVID-19 and other public health emergencies (Item #28)