House Resolution No. urges the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) to establish rules that would create an exception to the facility need review procedures for behavioral health service providers offering psychosocial rehabilitation or community psychiatric support, provided they meet specific criteria. This resolution highlights the significant mental health challenges faced by Louisiana residents, including high rates of anxiety and depression, and the barriers to accessing necessary mental health care, particularly in rural areas. The resolution emphasizes the need for increased access to mental health services and the importance of reducing regulatory barriers that hinder the expansion of care.

To qualify for the proposed exception, behavioral health service providers must have been licensed by LDH before January 1, 2024, and must not be operating under any provisional licenses or facing current disciplinary actions. The resolution also mandates that the LDH provide a written report to the House Committee on Health and Welfare by November 1, 2024, updating them on the progress of the rule promulgation. This initiative aims to enhance the availability of mental health services in Louisiana, particularly for underserved populations.