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SB 391

AN ACT CONCERNING THE AVAILABILITY OF BREAST CANCER SCREENING, DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT SERVICES FOR WOMEN COMMITTED TO THE CUSTODY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTION.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Saud Anwar and 11 co-sponsors

Connecticut bill requiring Department of Correction to provide incarcerated women with breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment services equal to community standards.

SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
#cancer #correctiondepartment #medicalcare #medicaltests #women
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Bill Summary · SB 391

Legislative bill overview

SB 391 mandates that the Connecticut Department of Correction provide incarcerated women access to breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment services. The bill ensures that women in DOC custody receive comparable cancer care services to those available in the general population, addressing a critical healthcare gap in correctional facilities.

Why is this important

Incarcerated populations historically experience barriers to preventive and diagnostic healthcare, including cancer screening. Early detection of breast cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates, making access to screening particularly critical. This bill addresses whether the state has an obligation to provide equitable medical care to individuals in its custody.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Expanding healthcare services in correctional facilities requires budget allocation; opponents may argue about fiscal responsibility versus healthcare obligations
  • Scope of services: Debate over what "treatment services" encompasses—whether it includes all available options or basic/standard care only
  • Implementation feasibility: Questions about whether DOC has infrastructure, trained personnel, and resources to provide comprehensive screening and treatment, or whether external partnerships/transfers would be necessary

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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