Technology

HB 858 exempts GPS location data collected by Louisiana's Department of Wildlife and Fisheries on individual wildlife and aquatic animals from public records disclosure. The bill amends state law to explicitly exclude this specific data from being released under public records requests. This directly affects the department's ability to share such data with the public, while protecting the precise locations of individual animals from potential misuse. The key provision prevents the release of GPS information that could reveal where specific animals are located.

This bill creates the Health Inequities and Disparities in Rural Areas Task Force to study health issues in Louisiana's rural communities and develop strategies to improve care. The task force will be made up of representatives from nursing, medical, hospital, and patient advocacy groups, along with state health officials. Its main duties include identifying causes of health gaps, exploring ways to reduce provider shortages, and studying how technology like telehealth can help rural residents access care. The group must submit a written report to the House and Senate health committees by February 1, 2027.

HB 897 protects patient healthcare data for participants in Louisiana's Pregnancy and Baby Care Initiative. It requires healthcare providers (general contractors and subcontractors) to obtain written consent before sharing any identifiable health information, provide clear privacy notices explaining what data will be shared and with whom, and offer an easy way for patients to revoke consent. Providers must also give patients free access to their records within 10 business days. Violations could lead to contract termination by the Department of Children and Family Services, following standard state procedures.

This resolution from the Louisiana House of Representatives asks the U.S. Congress to reform the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act and the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court. It calls for repealing and rewriting the USA Patriot Act to limit warrantless searches and investigations of American citizens. The bill seeks to restore privacy rights and Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches and seizures. It also urges state officials to uphold constitutional rights and avoid participating in any violations of citizens' rights.