House Bill No. by Representative Knox aims to establish minimum housing standards for organizations that provide services to individuals experiencing homelessness in Louisiana. The bill enacts a new section, R.S. 40:581, which mandates the Louisiana Department of Health, in consultation with the state fire marshal, to create rules that set minimum standards for emergency shelters, community facilities, group homes, and halfway houses. These standards will focus on critical aspects such as safety, sanitation, privacy, and habitability, ensuring that the facilities meet essential living conditions for vulnerable populations.

Additionally, the bill requires the state fire marshal to conduct annual inspections of these facilities to verify compliance with safety and sanitation standards. It also directs the Louisiana Department of Health to seek waivers from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to secure funding for healthcare and housing services for individuals experiencing homelessness. The proposed regulations will not conflict with existing federal law requirements, ensuring that the new standards align with broader legal frameworks.