RELATING TO HEALTH CARE FEES OF DETAINEES AND COMMITTED PERSONS.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang

Bill SB 2013 prohibits health care fees for detainees, ensuring they access essential medical and mental health services without financial barriers, improving health outcomes.

The committee on PSM deferred the measure.

#committedpersons #dental #departmentofcorrectionsandrehabilitation #detainees #feesprohibited #inmates #medical #ormentalhealthservicesortreatment

Introduction

Bill SB 2013 was introduced on January 10, 2024, and aims to address the health care fees imposed on detainees and committed persons within the jurisdiction of the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. The bill seeks to prohibit such fees, thereby ensuring that individuals in custody receive necessary medical and mental health services without financial barriers.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SB 2013 is to eliminate the financial burden of health care fees on detainees and committed persons. By prohibiting these fees, the bill aims to promote equitable access to essential health care services, including medical and dental treatment, for individuals who may already be facing significant challenges due to their incarceration or commitment status.

Key Provisions

Prohibition of Fees: The bill specifically prohibits the imposition of fees for medical and mental health services provided to detainees and committed persons.

Scope of Services: The legislation covers a range of health care services, including but not limited to:

Medical treatment
Dental care
Mental health services

Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation: The bill mandates that the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation must provide these services without charging detainees or committed persons.

Impact

Affected Individuals: The bill will directly benefit detainees and committed persons by removing financial barriers to accessing necessary health care services. This change is particularly significant for individuals who may lack financial resources or insurance coverage.

Health Outcomes: By ensuring that all individuals in custody can access health care without the worry of incurring fees, the bill aims to improve overall health outcomes and reduce potential health disparities within this population.

Legislative Process and Timeline

Introduced: January 10, 2024

First Reading: January 17, 2024

Committee Referrals: The bill was referred to the committees on Public Safety, Intergovernmental, and Military Affairs (PSM) and Health and Human Services (HHS), as well as the Judiciary and Ways and Means (JDC/WAM).

Public Hearing: A public hearing was scheduled for January 24, 2024, at 3:00 PM in Conference Room 225 and via videoconference.

Deferrals: The measure was deferred by both the PSM and HHS committees on January 24, 2024.

Conclusion

Bill SB 2013 represents a significant step towards ensuring that individuals in custody have access to necessary health care services without the burden of fees. By prohibiting such charges, the bill aims to promote fairness and improve health outcomes for a vulnerable population. The legislative process is ongoing, with further discussions and evaluations expected in the coming weeks.

Bill