Substitute Bill No. 1543 seeks to improve health care services and conditions for individuals incarcerated in correctional facilities under the Department of Correction. Notable changes include replacing the term "inmate" with "person who is incarcerated" to promote more humane language. The bill mandates the development of a comprehensive health care plan by October 1, 2025, which will include mental health care, substance use disorder treatment, and dental services. It requires annual physical examinations and initial health assessments within fourteen days of intake, ensuring that mental health therapists are available at each facility and that health assessments are conducted in designated areas. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of appropriate medical and mental health housing placements based on professional recommendations.

The bill also introduces provisions for pregnant individuals, ensuring they receive information about the risks of drug or alcohol withdrawal during pregnancy and appropriate prenatal care. It prohibits the use of nutraloaf as punishment and mandates nutritious meals. Furthermore, it establishes a framework for addressing medical malpractice and neglect, requiring reports on extreme cases and allowing for claims to be filed based on these findings. The bill also includes measures to enhance safety and transparency, such as the installation of body scanning machines to reduce invasive searches and the development of protocols for documenting assaults on custodial staff. Overall, Substitute Bill No. 1543 aims to enhance the quality of health care and living conditions for incarcerated individuals while ensuring their rights and dignity are respected.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 18-81pp
JUD Joint Favorable Substitute: 18-81pp
File No. 801: 18-81pp
APP Joint Favorable: 18-81pp