Authorizes and directs the legislative auditor to conduct performance audits of Louisiana's state and local correctional facilities
HCR104 is designed to enhance oversight and accountability within the corrections system, particularly with respect to the treatment of pregnant inmates. By mandating regular audits every three years starting in 2024, the resolution aims to ensure that correctional facilities adhere to the laws that provide for the specific needs and protections of pregnant women. This initiative signifies a legislative commitment to improving health and safety standards for incarcerated populations and may lead to policy changes based on the auditors' findings.
House Concurrent Resolution No. 104 (HCR104) empowers the Louisiana legislative auditor to carry out performance audits of the state's correctional facilities. Its primary focus is on ensuring compliance with various existing laws concerning the treatment of pregnant women in prisons, particularly Acts No. 761 (2012), No. 392 (2018), and No. 140 (2020). These Acts address critical issues such as the use of restraints on pregnant women, the accessibility of health products for incarcerated women, and the regulations governing solitary confinement for pregnant individuals.
The sentiment surrounding HCR104 appears predominantly positive among advocates for maternal health and prisoner rights. Supporters argue that the resolution is a necessary step towards rectifying deficiencies in the current treatment of pregnant women in correctional facilities and ensuring that state laws are implemented effectively. Conversely, there may be skepticism concerning the resources available for the audits and the actual implementation of subsequent recommended changes based on audit findings.
While HCR104 is generally seen as a proactive measure, it does raise questions regarding the adequacy of resources allocated to the legislative auditor's office and whether the findings will lead to concrete reforms. Additionally, any opposition may arise from stakeholders in the correctional system who feel that the audits could reflect poorly on their operational practices or require significant changes to current protocols. The success of HCR104 will depend on transparent execution and the political will to act on the recommendations provided.