This bill amends several sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes related to the Local Healthcare Provider Participation Program, specifically focusing on the establishment of multi-parish funding districts. It allows parishes with fewer than two hospitals to collaborate with contiguous parishes to create a new governmental entity known as a multi-parish funding district. The governing bodies of these districts will be composed of representatives appointed by each participating parish, and they will have the authority to delegate operational responsibilities among the parishes. Additionally, the bill clarifies that a multi-parish funding district will be treated as a parish for compliance purposes.

The bill also modifies provisions regarding local hospital assessment payments. It removes the previous cap on administrative expenses related to these payments, establishing a fixed amount of $150,000 instead. Furthermore, it specifies that local hospital assessments must comply with federal regulations, ensuring that no institutional provider is held harmless. The collection of these assessments will be managed by the parish unless an appropriate collection entity is engaged, with provisions for fees if a sheriff is involved in the collection process. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the funding and operational framework for healthcare providers in Louisiana.

Statutes affected:
HB456 Original: 40:5(D)(3), 40:8(D)
HB456 Engrossed: 40:5(D)(3), 40:8(B)
HB456 Reengrossed: 40:5(D)(3), 40:8(B)
HB456 Enrolled: 40:5(D)(3), 40:8(B)
HB456 Act : 40:5(D)(3), 40:8(B)