Senate Bill No. SLS 26RS-236, introduced by Senator Cathey, aims to enhance the management of public assistance benefits for children by establishing new reporting requirements and responsibilities for the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) and the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH). The bill mandates that DCFS report identifying information to LDH within 72 hours following a hearing related to changes in household circumstances. Upon receiving this information, LDH is required to review the public assistance benefits of the child's parents, adjust benefits accordingly, and issue new Medicaid cards if necessary. Additionally, if a child under 18 is returned to a parent's custody, DCFS must report this to LDH.

The bill also introduces a new duty for the state child ombudsman, who will conduct an annual review of the implementation of these provisions by DCFS and LDH, ensuring compliance with reporting requirements and reviewing departmental procedures. Furthermore, the bill allows the ombudsman to access records related to changes in household circumstances and adjustments of public assistance benefits. The proposed law is set to take effect on August 1, 2026.