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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | June 18, 2024 01:00 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Tim Briggs |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | REENTRY BILL |
| In the near future, I will introduce legislation authorizing the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC) to establish a medical assistance (Medicaid) reentry program for incarcerated individuals who are scheduled to be released and returning to their community. Historically, a large percentage of incarcerated individuals (80 to 85%) are dealing with substance use issues, many of which may have contributed to their incarceration. While incarcerated an individual’s access to medical assistance is suspended and all the cost of treatment and medication falls on the DOC. Once these benefits are suspended it takes time to reactivate and causes delays in access to care. My bill will ensure individuals transitioning back to our communities have access to substance use disorder treatment and case management services before release as well as a 30-day supply of medication upon release. This program may be available to counties that choose to opt in and will enable transitioning individuals an opportunity to continue their recovery. This bill will undoubtedly reduce recidivism and help make our communities safer. Please join me in sponsoring this important legislation. |
Introduced as HB2429