House Bill No. 404, introduced by Representative Chassion, aims to establish a medication-assisted treatment program for incarcerated individuals suffering from substance abuse disorders. The bill mandates the Department of Public Safety and Corrections (DPS&C) to collaborate with the Louisiana Department of Health and the Louisiana Sheriffs' Association to create this program. It outlines that inmates will work with specialists to develop individualized treatment plans, which will include medication, counseling, and support services. Additionally, the program will provide a reentry strategy that offers inmates information on treatment facilities, housing, and employment resources, as well as a one-week supply of medication upon release to help prevent relapse.

The bill also emphasizes the importance of ongoing support for inmates who may relapse or fail drug tests, ensuring they receive assistance rather than facing arrest. It requires the DPS&C secretary to submit an annual report to the governor and legislature on the program's effectiveness, with the first report due by August 1, 2027. Furthermore, the program will be funded through state opioid settlement funds, with provisions for legislative appropriation if those funds are unavailable. The legislation includes exceptions for local correctional facilities that lack the necessary resources to provide certain medications, allowing them to partner with community-based programs instead.