Louisiana Senate Bill SB64

Louisiana 2020 2nd Special Session

• Introduced: 10/6/20
• Refer: 10/6/20

Caption

Creates the Louisiana COVID-19 Health Equity Task Force (gov sig) (Item #40) (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

Impact

The creation of the COVID-19 Health Equity Task Force is intended to drive actionable assessments and recommendations aimed at ensuring a more equitable health care response to the pandemic. Its duties include monitoring COVID-19 testing access, producing data-driven reports on health disparities, and providing best practices for health care provision to communities with underlying medical conditions. Importantly, the task force will also review its provisions continually and has a planned termination date of December 31, 2030, ensuring a probationary period for evaluation.

Summary

Senate Bill 64 establishes the Louisiana COVID-19 Health Equity Task Force to address health disparities experienced by vulnerable populations in the state, particularly as they relate to the COVID-19 pandemic. The task force, created within the governor's office, will serve as a resource for promoting health equity and improving Louisiana's overall health care rankings. The proposed law mandates that members be appointed by the governor and come from a variety of relevant and interested state agencies, as well as other stakeholders in public health and policy.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 64 appears to be largely positive, viewed as a proactive response to addressing the health inequities that were highlighted during the COVID-19 crisis. By focusing on vulnerable populations, the task force is seen as a necessary mechanism to ensure that state and public health responses are effective and equitable. However, there may be concerns from some stakeholders regarding the allocation of funding and the effectiveness of a task force primarily reliant on donations and grants.

Contention

While SB 64 aims to create a structured response to health disparities, notable points of contention could arise regarding the recommendations made by the task force and the extent of its authority. Critics may question the funding model, which is limited to donations and grants, and whether this will adequately support the task force's ambitious goals. Additionally, the state's authority to act on the task force's recommendations may also provoke debate about resource allocation and the prioritization of public health initiatives.