Louisiana House Bill HCR101

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/21/14
• Refer: 4/22/14
• Report Pass: 5/13/14
• Engrossed: 5/19/14
• Passed: 5/21/14

Caption

Expresses the intention and commitment of the legislature to renew the state's focus on implementation of the State Alzheimer's Plan recommended by the Louisiana Alzheimer's Disease Task Force

Impact

The resolution aims to enhance the state's infrastructure, data collection, education, early detection, and healthcare coverage related to Alzheimer's disease. By implementing the State Alzheimer's Plan, Louisiana seeks to become a dementia-capable state, ensuring that resources and care services align with the needs of families affected by Alzheimer's. This would potentially alleviate some burden on family caregivers, who provided millions of hours of unpaid care, reflecting a significant economic and social toll on the state's resources.

Summary

HCR101 is a House Concurrent Resolution that expresses the commitment of the Louisiana Legislature to renew focus on the implementation of the State Alzheimer's Plan. This plan was recommended by the Louisiana Alzheimer's Disease Task Force in conjunction with the Department of Health and Hospitals and the Louisiana chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. The resolution emphasizes the devastating impact of Alzheimer's disease, which is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S. and significantly affects the elderly population in Louisiana, where approximately eighty-one thousand individuals live with the condition.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HCR101 appears to be positive and constructive, with widespread support for measures that aim to address a critical public health issue. By renewing the focus on the Alzheimer's plan, legislators and stakeholders alike have shown a commitment to improving the lives of those affected by the disease and acknowledging the challenges that caregivers face. This proactive approach is viewed favorably by advocacy groups and healthcare organizations as an essential step toward comprehensive care.

Contention

While HCR101 itself is a statement of intent rather than a legislative change, potential contention may arise regarding the prioritization of funds and attention toward its implementation. Questions about the effectiveness and pace of executing the recommendations from the Alzheimer's Task Force could lead to debates in future legislative sessions. Concerns may also be expressed over whether the aggressive pursuit of these health initiatives effectively meets the immediate needs of Alzheimer’s patients and their families within the constraints of state resources.