The bill establishes the Louisiana Foundational Integrated Research System for Transformation (LA FIRST), which will be developed and maintained by the Board of Regents at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. It mandates the execution of data sharing agreements by December 1, 2023, involving various state entities, including the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Department of Education. The system aims to enhance the collection of integrated data while ensuring individual privacy and confidentiality standards. LA FIRST will also be responsible for publishing annual reports analyzing educational transitions, employment outcomes, and criminal justice system linkages.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law to include LA FIRST in the list of exceptions to public records laws, thereby allowing it access to necessary data while imposing restrictions on the use of personally identifiable information. The data shared will be categorized into personal and nonpersonal information, with strict guidelines on how personal data can be utilized. The provisions of the bill will take effect upon the approval of a specific appropriation for its implementation.

Statutes affected:
SB205 Enrolled: 44:1(B)(9)
SB205 Act : 44:1(B)(9)