This bill establishes the office of the surgeon general within the Louisiana Department of Health, detailing its purpose, duties, and functions. It amends existing laws to include the surgeon general as a key officer of the department, appointed by the governor with Senate consent, and serving as the state health officer. The surgeon general is required to be a licensed and practicing physician in Louisiana and will act as the chief medical officer, providing medical guidance and recommendations to the department and the governor. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the office, including health data management, public health promotion, and coordination with other healthcare entities.

Additionally, the bill modifies the definition of the state health officer, designating the surgeon general for this role and allowing for the issuance of orders, rules, or regulations without prior approval from the secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health. It also creates an exception in ethics provisions for the surgeon general. The act will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for bills to become law without a signature.

Statutes affected:
HB853 Original: 36:251(C)(1), 36:252(A), 36:257(A), 40:1
HB853 Engrossed: 36:251(C)(1), 36:252(A), 36:257(A), 40:1
HB853 Reengrossed: 36:251(C)(1), 36:252(A), 36:257(A), 40:1
HB853 Enrolled: 36:251(C)(1), 36:252(A), 36:257(A), 40:1
HB853 Act 739: 36:251(C)(1), 36:252(A), 36:257(A), 40:1