Article archive / September 1, 2009
Originally published: . Volume 1, No. 1. Source pages: 1, 3.
Most Louisiana Psychological Association (LPA) members were unaware of the Louisiana Academy of Medical Psychologists (LAMP) 2009 bill and its progress through the Louisiana Legislature, until one psychologist noticed the bill and posted a question about it on the LPA listserv. Some LPA members posted comments about the bill conveying surprise and confusion such as “What happened?” and “Who let this slip past LPA?” As the bill progressed toward the Governor’s office, listserv member comments increased in frequency, some were angry, and demands for explanations from LPA officials surfaced.
Outgoing President Darla Barnett posted a letter to LPA members on 6/25 stating that, “The Louisiana Academy of Medical Psychology, a statewide organization comprised of medical psychologists, has been involved legislatively during the passage of this bill. LPA has monitored this bill, as it does all bills potentially affecting psychology, but took no formal position on the bill. The Louisiana Academy of Medical Psychology and the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners have negotiated what they both believe to be the best compromise on the legislation.”
The in-coming LPA president, Judith Levy, on 7/1 noted that the bill would affect only Medical Psychologists (MPs). Cathy Castille, Treasurer, also posted on 7/1 saying that “’loose lips sink ships’ is a common phrase in political circles.” And that, “As far as the current situation, I trust that LAMP will share certain facts that influence what has transpired and what is going on, and all will become public when the time is right.”
According to the LPA website, a number of LPA officers hold the MP credential. These include Jim Quillin, Chair of Legislative & Public Policy and APA Delegate for LPA, the President, President– Elect, Treasurer, Medical Psychology Chair, and the Chair of Public Education.
Jim Quillin, writing on listserv that “I have been authorized by the president of LAMP to provide factual information:,” responded to LPA members complaints about the lack of information, after the bill had been signed by Gov. Jindal. In answering the question, “Why didn’t LPA take a position on this bill?” Quillin posted that, “It did not affect the licensure or practice of non-MP members in any fashion.” Quillin has not yet answered other specific questions posed to him, as LPA Chair of Legislative Policy, on the listserv.
A telephone call made to American Psychological Association (APA) consultants in the Practice Directorate by this reporter, acting as an LPA and APA member, revealed that they had not been consulted on this bill. One said it was “very unusual for APA not to be involved.” Also, in a call to the Executive Director of the State Medical Board, the Director said he was unfamiliar with the organization called LPA, but that he was familiar with LAMP.
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