This bill proposes significant updates to the current statutes regarding the release of inmates for medical care. Under the new provisions, the Director of the Arizona Department of Corrections (ADCRR) would be granted the authority to release inmates to contracted medical institutions if they receive written confirmation from the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) that the inmate qualifies for enrollment in the Arizona Long-Term Care System (ALTCS). The bill also mandates that these medical institutions allow inmates freedom of movement and association, prohibiting restrictions based solely on their inmate status unless necessary due to medical conditions or age.

Additionally, the bill establishes a process for determining an inmate's preliminary baseline eligibility for release, separate from the ALTCS eligibility determination. It requires timely notifications regarding eligibility and stipulates that inmates cannot receive ALTCS services until they are released to a medical institution. The bill also includes provisions for notifying victims of the inmate's release and mandates that inmates be returned to custody if they no longer meet ALTCS eligibility requirements. Furthermore, it introduces definitions for terms such as "baseline eligibility," "disability," "eligible person," and "medical institution," thereby clarifying the criteria for inmate release and care.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 31-243