House Resolution No. by Representative Larvadain establishes a Task Force on Substance Use among Incarcerated and Released Populations in Louisiana. The task force is tasked with studying substance use trends and treatment options for individuals in local parish prisons, state prisons, on probation and parole, in transitional work programs, and within the foster care system. The resolution highlights the alarming statistics regarding substance use among incarcerated individuals in Louisiana, where 73% of those in custody have substance use issues contributing to their criminal behavior. The task force will examine the scope of substance use, its impact on public health and recidivism, and the availability and efficacy of current treatment programs, while also considering racial, gender, and socioeconomic factors.

The task force will consist of various representatives from state departments, health organizations, and community-based recovery services, and is required to submit a comprehensive report of its findings and recommendations to the Louisiana House of Representatives by January 31, 2026. The resolution emphasizes the need for integrated treatment strategies that address both mental health and substance use disorders to reduce recidivism rates and support long-term recovery for individuals reentering society. The task force is expected to convene its first meeting by September 1, 2025, and will actively seek input from those directly impacted by incarceration and substance use disorders.