The General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1394 aims to enhance the provision of health care services to inmates in correctional institutions in Connecticut. The bill mandates the Department of Public Health, in collaboration with the Department of Correction, to conduct annual evaluations of health care services provided to inmates, assessing whether best practices from health care facilities are being implemented in correctional settings. By January 1, 2026, the Commissioner of Public Health is required to report these evaluations to the relevant legislative committee. Additionally, the Correction Ombuds must report on the adequacy of health care personnel in correctional facilities and the communication processes regarding health care services for inmates and their families.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a task force to investigate barriers to recruiting and retaining health care personnel within the Department of Correction. This task force will consist of various appointed members, including representatives from the General Assembly and health care personnel unions. The task force is tasked with submitting a report on its findings and recommendations by January 1, 2026. The Commissioner of Correction is also required to report on policies related to inmate health care services and communication with external health care providers. The bill includes new legal language to establish these requirements and does not propose any deletions from current law.