---
urn: urn:us-la:rs:40:2158
citation: "R.S. 40:2158"
status: active
breadcrumb: "Title 40 › Chapter 11 › Part IV-A"
acts_citations:
  - { year: 2013, number: 308, section: 1, effective_date: 2013-06-17, role: enactment }
---

# Operation without license; penalty

A. A behavioral health services provider shall not operate without a license issued by the department. Any provider or facility operating without a license shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be fined no less than two hundred fifty dollars nor more than one thousand dollars. Each day of violation shall constitute a separate offense. It shall be the responsibility of the department to inform the appropriate district attorney of the alleged violation to assure enforcement.

B. If a behavioral health services provider is operating without a license issued by the department, the department shall have the authority to issue an immediate cease and desist order to that provider. Any such provider receiving such a cease and desist order from the department shall immediately cease operations until such time as that provider is issued a license by the department.

C. The department shall seek an injunction in the Nineteenth Judicial District Court against any provider who receives a cease and desist order from the department under Subsection B of this Section and who does not cease operations immediately. Any provider against whom an injunction is granted shall be liable to the department for attorney fees, costs, and damages.