Senate Concurrent Resolution No. by Senator Edmonds expresses the sincere condolences of the Louisiana Legislature upon the passing of Josephine Ruth Kennedy, who served as the former Medicaid Director of the Louisiana Department of Health. Ruth Kennedy, who passed away at the age of seventy-one on March 20, 2026, was a dedicated public servant known for her significant contributions to expanding healthcare access in Louisiana. Over her forty-year career, she played a pivotal role in implementing major initiatives such as LaCHIP, Bayou Health, and Louisiana's Medicaid expansion program, which collectively improved healthcare delivery for thousands of residents.

The resolution honors Ruth Kennedy's legacy as a trailblazer in public service, highlighting her strategic abilities and commitment to helping families access essential services. She was recognized for her leadership and received numerous accolades, including the Dunbar Award in 2015. Ruth's unwavering faith and dedication to her community were evident in her lifelong involvement with Blood River Church of God. The resolution concludes by acknowledging her surviving family members and expressing gratitude for her impactful life, which will continue to inspire those who knew her.