Louisiana Senate Bill SB690

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/3/12
• Refer: 4/3/12
• Report Pass: 5/2/12

Caption

Relative to the providing of services to the elderly. (gov sig)

Impact

The proposed changes would result in a more streamlined approach to the management of programs that support elderly individuals, including both long-term care and protective services for vulnerable adults. By outlining the responsibilities of the newly established office of elderly affairs, the bill intends to enhance coordination among existing programs and ensure that resources are allocated effectively. This could potentially lead to better health and support services for the elderly population, responding to their unique needs more effectively than before.

Summary

Senate Bill 690 aims to enhance the structure and function of the services provided to the elderly by amending existing laws related to aging and adult services in Louisiana. Specifically, it addresses the roles of the Department of Health and Hospitals, the office of aging and adult services, as well as creating a dedicated office of elderly affairs within the governor's office. The bill is designed to ensure that the services provided to the elderly population are both comprehensive and efficient, reflecting the state's commitment to improving care for its aging citizens.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 690 appears to be largely positive, with strong support expressed for the bill's intent to improve the lives of elderly individuals. Reviewers of the bill seem to agree on the necessity of having a structured approach to managing elderly services in Louisiana. However, there might be concerns regarding the sufficiency of resources and the actual implementation of the proposed changes, which could affect the overall sentiment if not addressed appropriately.

Contention

While there are advocates emphasizing the need for better support systems for the elderly, there may be contention regarding the effectiveness of the newly proposed office of elderly affairs. Questions about funding and the ability of the government to meet the anticipated needs of the elderly population could arise during discussions. Moreover, ensuring that the new structures do not create bureaucratic hurdles for assistance programs will be crucial in maintaining the positive momentum of the bill.