Louisiana 2020 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HR44

Introduced
5/18/20  
Introduced
5/18/20  
Refer
5/18/20  
Refer
5/18/20  
Report Pass
5/20/20  
Report Pass
5/20/20  
Passed
6/1/20  

Caption

Directs the governor to ensure that individual liberty and rights are protected as the state administers contact tracing

Impact

By mandating that participation in contact tracing be voluntary and prohibiting any form of penalty for non-participation, HR44 seeks to safeguard the privacy and autonomy of Louisiana citizens. It requires that public health workers disclose the voluntary nature of participation before collecting any information, aiming to build public trust in the contact tracing process. The resolution also prohibits tracking individuals through mobile geolocation and collecting personal identifying information, thus reinforcing a commitment to protecting citizens' rights during health emergencies.

Summary

House Resolution 44 (HR44) aims to direct the governor of Louisiana to ensure that the individual liberties and rights of citizens are protected during the administration of contact tracing programs, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing the considerable powers granted to the governor under the Louisiana Health Emergency Powers Act, the resolution seeks to address concerns raised by citizens about the potential infringement on their rights through the implementation of public health measures. It emphasizes the need for protecting privacy and individual freedoms amidst public health initiatives.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR44 appears to be predominantly supportive among lawmakers, as evidenced by the overwhelming majority of 'yea' votes during the final consideration (84 'yeas' to only 2 'nays'). The resolution reflects a proactive approach to balancing public health objectives with fundamental rights, garnering approval from representatives likely concerned about governmental overreach and the potential abuse of health powers. This supportive sentiment highlights a collective recognition of the importance of individual rights even in the context of public health emergencies.

Contention

While HR44 has gained considerable legislative support, it may face scrutiny or contention regarding its implications for public health management during crises. Critics might argue that the stringent protections on individual rights could hinder effective contact tracing efforts, which rely on widespread participation to be successful. Additionally, the resolution’s strict guidelines may raise discussions on the practicality of enforcing such measures while still ensuring public safety, indicating a potential tension between individual liberties and collective health needs.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HR9

Requests the government of the United Kingdom to continue its commitment to the foundational principles of individual liberties as enshrined in the Magna Carta

LA J01294

Commending Dr. William Valenti, upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the New York State Senate

LA SCR107

Urges Governor to protect religious liberty during declared state of emergency.

LA ACR150

Urges Governor to protect religious liberty during declared state of emergency.

LA S2924

"Liberty State Park Protection Act"; establishes requirements concerning DEP actions related to Liberty State Park.

LA HF394

Limits for contact tracing, digital contract tracing, immunizations, communicable disease testing, and the required disclosure of certain information established; destruction of certain data required; mandatory digital contact tracing by employers prohibited; and civil penalties provided.

LA SCR122

Requesting Each State Agency To Provide The Affected Person With Written Notice Of Certain Information Before Taking Any Final Administrative Action That Materially And Adversely Affects A Protected Liberty Or Property Interest.

LA SR114

Requesting Each State Agency To Provide The Affected Person With Written Notice Of Certain Information Before Taking Any Final Administrative Action That Materially And Adversely Affects A Protected Liberty Or Property Interest.

LA J01293

Commending Armando Gramajo and Shayla Gramajo upon the occasion of their designation as recipients of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon individuals by the New York State Senate

LA SB136

To Create The Right To Try Individualized Investigational Treatment Act; And To Ensure That Patients Have Access To Individualized Investigational Treatment.

Similar Bills

LA HB603

Amends the appointing process for certain occupational licensing boards, committees, and authorities

LA SB350

Changes the name of the Louisiana Soybean Association. (8/1/26)

LA HB688

Provides relative to the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-East and Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-West Bank

LA HB492

Creates the Governor's Task Force on Impaired Driving (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

LA SB161

Provides relative to Louisiana Economic Development. (8/1/25) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD EX See Note)

LA HB640

Establishes the office of Louisiana Highway Construction (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)

LA HB633

Provides relative to the boards of commissioners for the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-East and the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-West Bank

LA HR6

Requests the governor to protect religious freedoms