Louisiana 2021 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HCR127

Introduced
6/7/21  
Introduced
6/7/21  
Engrossed
6/8/21  

Caption

Urges and requests the La. Department of Health to adjust the state Medicaid budget to allocate funding more equitably throughout the disability services system

Impact

HCR127 seeks to rectify previous funding limitations that arose from amendments to the state budget, which inadvertently reduced total funding for disability services. Notably, the bill calls for increased Medicaid rates to primarily support wages and other costs for private providers involved in various waiver services. This measure is designed to strengthen the support system for those who rely on these services, thus creating a more sustainable framework for disability services in Louisiana. The resolution is particularly focused on ensuring that all financial assistance is distributed fairly to avoid hindering access to essential services.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 127 (HCR127) urges the Louisiana Department of Health to adjust the state Medicaid budget to allocate funding more equitably throughout the disability services system. The resolution emphasizes the necessity of equitable funding for all providers, as disparities in resources can significantly impact the quality and consistency of services delivered to individuals with disabilities across the state. By endorsing equitable Medicaid funding, the legislature aims to uphold the health, safety, and well-being of persons with developmental, intellectual, and physical disabilities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR127 appears to be largely supportive among legislators and advocates for disability rights, who view the resolution as a critical step towards addressing existing inequities in funding. The unanimous support reflected in the voting history, with 35 yeas and no nays, indicates a strong commitment to enhance the quality of life for individuals relying on disability services. However, some concerns remain about the adequacy of the proposed funding levels and the operational capability of service providers if the necessary financial adjustments are not implemented effectively.

Contention

While the resolution enjoys broad legislative support, there are underlying tensions regarding the sufficiency of state funding and its long-term sustainability. Critics may argue that while increasing Medicaid rates is favorable, the state must ensure that these changes are substantial enough to meaningfully impact the service system. The resolution’s success hinges on the practicality of implementing these recommendations and the ability of the Louisiana Department of Health to realize the projected budgets while maintaining compliance with federal laws governing Medicaid funding.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HCR7

Requests DHH to implement a more equitable system of reimbursement for Medicaid long-term care providers (OR +$63,336,674 GF EX See Note)

LA HCR208

Urges and requests the Department of Health and Hospitals to develop a formula that demonstrates an equitable funding distribution for the human service districts and authorities

LA HCR26

Requests that the La. Department of Health resume implementation of a Medicaid managed long-term services and supports system

LA HR196

Urges and requests the La. Department of Health to study Medicaid rates for nonemergency medical transportation services and potential means of financing of those services

LA HCR40

Requests the La. Department of Health to study and report on the costs of providing nursing services in certain Medicaid-funded programs and facilities for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities

LA HR211

Urges the La. Department of Health to convene a Disability Services Sustainability Committee

LA HCR76

Urges and requests the La. Department of Health to convene an opioid action summit

LA HCR121

Urges and requests the La. Department of Health to convene a healthcare workplace violence task force to advance the priorities expressed in HCR No. 60 of the 2019 R.S.

LA HCR61

Urges and requests BESE to develop a statewide funding model for early childhood care and educational services

LA HCR73

Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Health to develop a professional consulting nursing service code for reimbursement of certain services for individuals with developmental disabilities

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.