SLS 23RS-3016 ORIGINAL
2023 Regular Session
SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 206
BY SENATOR BARROW
HOSPITALS. Request the Louisiana Department of Health to provide precise details
regarding the potential establishment of a forensic psychiatric hospital located in a densely
populated community near a school.
1 A RESOLUTION
2 To urge and request the Louisiana Department of Health to provide precise details regarding
3 the potential establishment of a forensic psychiatric hospital located in a densely
4 populated community near a school.
5 WHEREAS, mental health is crucial due to its essential role in emotional,
6 psychological, and social well-being, as well as its impact on cognitive and emotional
7 processes, stress management, interpersonal connections, and decision-making abilities; and
8 WHEREAS, mental and physical health are intricately linked, with implications for
9 the immune system, susceptibility to chronic conditions, sleep patterns, energy levels,
10 overall well-being, physical fitness, and resilience; and
11 WHEREAS, by enhancing concentration, cognitive abilities, creativity,
12 problem-solving skills, and decision-making capabilities, optimal mental and physical health
13 has a positive impact on productivity and performance in academic, work, and personal
14 pursuits; and
15 WHEREAS, forensic psychiatric facilities aim to enhance mental health and mitigate
16 the risk of recidivism among individuals with serious mental illness who have faced criminal
17 charges, as well as other patients with comparable complex needs; and
18 WHEREAS, forensic psychiatric care should be delivered in the least restrictive
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SLS 23RS-3016 ORIGINAL
1 setting possible, with the goal of eventual community reintegration, while ensuring a secure
2 treatment environment that addresses specific challenges, often requiring extended periods
3 of treatment or rehabilitation; and
4 WHEREAS, careful selection of a site for a forensic psychiatric hospital is crucial
5 to striking a delicate balance that prioritizes the well-being of patients and public safety
6 while considering the potential impact on the community, educational staff, and students,
7 which may evoke heightened anxiety, fear, or confusion, warranting a thorough assessment
8 of potential implications; and
9 WHEREAS, extensive study and research is needed to assess the potential impacts
10 of the forensic psychiatric hospital's presence on the psychological, social, and academic
11 well-being of students, as well as the broader community, taking into account its effects on
12 the educational environment, student well-being, overall community harmony, societal
13 impact, economic productivity, public health, and the fulfillment of mental health needs,
14 aiming to foster a healthier and more compassionate society.
15 THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Senate of the Legislature of Louisiana
16 does hereby request the Louisiana Department of Health to furnish a report with details
17 regarding a forensic psychiatric hospital potentially situated in a densely populated
18 community and in close proximity to a school.
19 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that upon receipt of an application for a forensic
20 psychiatric hospital, the Louisiana Department of Health, the Louisiana Division of
21 Administration, and the Office of State Procurement are requested to promptly notify the
22 Louisiana state legislators representing the respective areas affected by the proposed facility.
23 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the report requested by this Resolution shall be
24 submitted by September 30, 2023.
25 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this Resolution be transmitted to the
26 Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health.
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SLS 23RS-3016 ORIGINAL
The original instrument and the following digest, which constitutes no part
of the legislative instrument, were prepared by Michelle B. Johnson.
DIGEST
SR 206 Original 2023 Regular Session Barrow
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to furnish precise details concerning the
potential establishment a forensic psychiatric hospital situated in a densely populated
community in close proximity to a school.
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