Louisiana 2023 Regular Session

Louisiana Senate Bill SR98

Introduced
5/17/23  
Introduced
5/17/23  
Refer
5/18/23  
Report Pass
5/24/23  
Passed
5/25/23  

Caption

Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to apply for a waiver from the United States Department of Heath and Human Services to allow Medicaid reimbursement for individuals, including juveniles in detention.

Impact

If successfully implemented, the waiver could fundamentally alter the landscape of Medicaid services for incarcerated populations in Louisiana, which has the highest incarceration rate in the U.S. This resolution aims to enhance continuity of care, allowing individuals to receive necessary medical, mental, and substance use disorder treatments during their time in detention and in the critical pre-release period. By addressing health disparities and ensuring that individuals have a structured post-release care plan, the state could experience reduced long-term healthcare costs and potentially lower recidivism rates related to health issues.

Summary

Senate Resolution 98 is a legislative measure that urges the Louisiana Department of Health to explore the feasibility and costs associated with applying for a federal waiver. This waiver would allow Medicaid reimbursement for individuals, including juveniles, who are currently in detention. The rationale behind this request is grounded in the recognition of special health needs among incarcerated individuals and the potential benefits of facilitating access to essential healthcare services as they transition back into the community.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SR98 appears to be supportive, particularly from health advocates and stakeholders concerned with public health and justice reform. There is recognition of the unmet healthcare needs among detention populations and the imperative to design a system that can effectively respond to those needs. Supporters argue that passing this resolution aligns with the broader goals of social equity and health justice, positioning Louisiana to take meaningful steps towards improving health outcomes in these vulnerable populations.

Contention

One notable point of contention, however, may arise from budgetary considerations and the potential implications for state healthcare funding. Critics could raise concerns about the costs associated with expanding Medicaid to include incarcerated individuals and the fiscal responsibilities that come with implementing such a system. The complexity of federal and state healthcare interactions may also lead to debates around how best to manage the logistics and compliance necessary to secure approval for the waiver from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HB751

Community Health, Department of; submit a Section 1115 waiver request to the United States Department of Health and Human Services for Medicare and Medicaid Services; authorize

LA SCR27

Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to increase the Medicaid reimbursement rate for breast pumps and related supplies.

LA SR9

Requesting The Department Of Human Services And Department Of Health To Establish A Program To Incentivize Community Care Foster Family Homes In The State To Accept Individuals Who Are Eligible For Assistance Pursuant To The State's Medicaid I/dd Waiver Program.

LA SR57

Requesting The Department Of Human Services And Department Of Health To Establish A Program To Incentivize Community Care Foster Family Homes In The State To Accept Individuals Who Are Eligible For Assistance Pursuant To The State's Medicaid I/dd Waiver Program.

LA SCR13

Requesting The Department Of Human Services And Department Of Health To Establish A Program To Incentivize Community Care Foster Family Homes In The State To Accept Individuals Who Are Eligible For Assistance Pursuant To The State's Medicaid I/dd Waiver Program.

LA SCR74

Requesting The Department Of Human Services And Department Of Health To Establish A Program To Incentivize Community Care Foster Family Homes In The State To Accept Individuals Who Are Eligible For Assistance Pursuant To The State's Medicaid I/dd Waiver Program.

LA HR42

Requests the La. Department of Health to seek approval of a Medicaid waiver authorizing reimbursement for inpatient treatment of serious mental illness

LA HCR67

Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to study and report on gaps in acute healthcare access for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities

LA HB1401

Community health workers; provide for certification of by Health Department and for Medicaid reimbursement for services of.

LA HB1238

Community Health, Department of; submit a waiver request to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to authorize the qualification of certain caregivers for Medicaid reimbursement

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