The bill amends and reenacts several provisions of the Health Care Employment Reinvestment Opportunity (H.E.R.O.) Fund, specifically R.S. 17:3050.11. It authorizes the Louisiana Department of Health to allocate and expend funds for various purposes, including supporting dual enrollment programs, increasing career pathways in healthcare, and raising awareness of healthcare occupations. New provisions also allow the department to fund grant proposals aimed at enhancing training and educational opportunities for Louisiana residents in healthcare fields, including financial incentives for nursing and allied health training.

Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for grant proposals, including requirements for documentation, evaluation criteria, and the authority of the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget to approve grant awards. It mandates the department to publish funding opportunities and submit annual reports on fund allocation and performance metrics. The bill also establishes that the Louisiana Board of Regents will assist the department with relevant information and documentation. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2024, contingent upon legislative approval if vetoed by the governor.

Statutes affected:
HB329 Original: 17:11(C)(1)
HB329 Engrossed: 17:11(C)(1)
HB329 Reengrossed: 17:11(C)(1)
HB329 Enrolled: 17:11(C)(1)
HB329 Act 607: 17:11(C)(1)