POLICY ADVOCACY
Underlying every equitable system are strong, clear policies that afford all individuals the tools they need to lead healthy, productive lives. At LCHE, one of our core strategies for improving health outcomes is policy advocacy through campaigns, legislative studies, and policy recommendations. One of our most impactful advocacy initiatives was the successful campaign for Medicaid expansion that was signed into law on January 13, 2016.
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Currently, our policy agenda centers around supporting the behavioral health needs of youth exposed to trauma and childhood adversity (Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)), more specifically, championing policy efforts to address the role of ACEs on disciplinary practices within Louisiana’s schools, an issue that has grown increasingly critical in the wake of COVID-19. ​​
LCHE advocated for legislation addressing the growing mental health crisis among youth in our state. House Bill 846, now Act 455, also known as the Mental Health Transparency Bill, became law on July 1, 2024. Act 455 provides for certain fiscal controls relative to reporting on federal and state funding of mental health services. This legislation addresses a recommendation that originates from the Student Behavior, Mental Health, and Discipline Task Force's 2023 report to the Louisiana State Legislature.
LCHE’s policy priorities are issues pertaining to women and children, including but not limited to maternal and child health and access to quality care. Under the commission of the Louisiana Legislature, LCHE convened regional and statewide studies including, service delivery and financing policies. These studies were authorized under the following legislation:
These studies have been completed by LCHE and follow up on the findings are currently underway.