LA HB676

Creates new crime of "body brokering" prohibiting soliciting, offering, paying, or receiving fees, kickbacks, or commissions for referring patients to residential substance abuse facilities, mental health facilities, or substance use disorder treatment facilities

Exempts payments that do not vary based on number of patients referred, duration/volume of treatment provided, or amount of insurance benefits received

Criminal penalties include up to 5 years imprisonment and/or fines up to $50,000

Additional penalties may include license suspension/revocation, civil fines up to $25,000, and other fines assessed by the Louisiana Department of Health

Convicted offenders must pay full restitution to victims and others who suffered financial losses from the offense