Louisiana House Bill HCR45

Louisiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/28/22
• Refer: 3/29/22
• Report Pass: 4/27/22
• Engrossed: 5/4/22
• Refer: 5/9/22
• Report Pass: 5/11/22
• Passed: 5/18/22

Caption

Requests a comprehensive assessment and report on substance use disorder treatment capacity and needs statewide

Impact

Upon implementation, HCR45 aims to enhance the overall treatment capacity for substance use disorders in Louisiana by directing efforts towards the areas and populations most in need. The office of behavioral health will evaluate both outpatient and residential treatment options, facilitating a preventative approach to addiction and overall public health. This resolution suggests a shift in public policy, emphasizing the importance of thorough assessments to guide future investments in treatment services and potentially influence Medicaid funding strategies for substance use disorder treatment.

Summary

HCR45 is a concurrent resolution urging the Louisiana Department of Health's office of behavioral health to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the state's capacity and needs concerning substance use disorder treatment. The resolution acknowledges the devastating effects of untreated substance use disorders, particularly in light of the ongoing opioid crisis, which has worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. By understanding current treatment capacity and unmet needs, the resolution seeks to inform policymakers to strategically allocate resources where they are most needed.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HCR45 appears to be positive, with broad support for addressing the ongoing substance use disorder issues in the state. Stakeholders acknowledge the necessity of such assessments to improve treatment offerings and gauge the effectiveness of current services. While there may be some concern regarding the efficient implementation of recommendations, the resolution is fundamentally viewed as a proactive measure to combat the growing addiction crisis in Louisiana.

Contention

Although HCR45 underscores the need for better assessment and resources for treating substance use disorders, there may be contention regarding the specific methods of data collection and the allocation of treatment resources following the assessment. Engaging various stakeholders, including treatment providers and state agencies, is essential for the resolution's success, but disagreements may arise over which populations should receive priority treatment and how resources should be distributed. Clarity on addressing the needs of vulnerable groups, such as adolescents and women with children, will be crucial in determining the overall effectiveness of the proposed measures.