Senate Bill No. by Senator Stine seeks to amend and reenact various sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes concerning the Addictive Disorder Regulatory Authority (ADRA). The bill introduces new definitions, including "behavioral health condition," "peer support specialist," and "peer support specialist associate," while expanding the board's membership from eight to nine voting members, now including a representative from the Louisiana Department of Health's office of behavioral health. It outlines the scope of practice for peer support specialists and associates, emphasizing their role in providing mentorship and support to individuals with behavioral health conditions without offering clinical services. The bill also details the application process and qualifications for becoming a peer support specialist, including passing a written examination and demonstrating professional competence.

Furthermore, the legislation repeals certain existing provisions related to the ADRA, specifically R.S. 40:1203.3(E)(5), and enacts new sections that define the responsibilities and requirements for peer support specialists and their associates. It establishes ADRA as the licensing board responsible for credentialing professionals involved in substance use disorder counseling and peer support services. The bill sets application and renewal fees ranging from $50 to $300 and modifies employment disqualifications for peer support specialists with specific criminal convictions, transferring authority from the Louisiana Department of Health to ADRA for establishing training and requirements. These changes are scheduled to take effect on August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB168 Original: 37:2(A), 37:2(B), 37:6(B)(6), 40:3(E)(3), 40:3(E)(5)