The bill enacts a new part of the Louisiana Revised Statutes, specifically Part IX of Chapter 1 of Title 40, which establishes an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) surveillance system within the Louisiana Department of Health. This system is designed to collect, analyze, interpret, and disseminate data regarding individuals living with ALS in Louisiana. The legislation includes provisions for mandatory reporting of ALS cases by designated sources, while also ensuring confidentiality of individual identifying data. The bill emphasizes the importance of accurate data collection, noting that current statistics may underrepresent the number of ALS patients in the state.
Additionally, the bill mandates the Louisiana Department of Health to produce an annual report based on the findings from the surveillance system, which will be submitted to relevant health committees in the legislature. The effective date of the bill is contingent upon the governor's signature or the expiration of the time for bills to become law without signature. Overall, this legislation aims to enhance the understanding and tracking of ALS in Louisiana, potentially leading to improved research and resources for affected individuals.