The bill amends the Judicial Agency Referral Residential Facility Regulatory Act by updating the definitions and requirements for facilities that provide housing or temporary residence to individuals referred by judicial agencies. Specifically, it introduces the term "treatment" alongside "housing" and "temporary residence," indicating that facilities may also provide treatment services. The bill mandates that no facility can offer housing or treatment until it has been inspected and certified by the appropriate state departments, namely the Department of Public Safety and Corrections for housing and the Louisiana Department of Health for treatment.

Additionally, the definition of "judicial agency" is expanded to include the sheriff, sheriff's department, and district court officials, while removing the previous stipulation that excluded sheriffs and their departments from being considered judicial agencies. The bill also clarifies that judicial agency referral residential facilities are prohibited from participating in sheriffs' work release programs and from receiving state funding. These changes aim to enhance the regulatory framework governing these facilities and ensure compliance with state standards.

Statutes affected:
SB135 Original: 40:2852(C)
SB135 Engrossed: 40:2852(C)
SB135 Enrolled: 40:2852(C)
SB135 Act : 40:2852(C)