Substitute Bill No. 1543 seeks to amend Section 18-81pp of the general statutes to improve healthcare services for individuals who are incarcerated within the Department of Correction. Key changes include replacing the term "inmate" with "person who is incarcerated" to promote a more humane perspective. The bill mandates the development of a comprehensive healthcare plan by October 1, 2025, which must encompass mental health, substance use disorder, and dental care services. It also establishes protocols for healthcare assessments, requiring annual physical examinations and initial health assessments within fourteen days of intake, while ensuring compliance with recommendations for medical or mental health housing placements unless significant safety concerns arise.

In addition to healthcare provisions, the bill introduces measures to enhance the overall conditions within correctional facilities. It mandates that pregnant individuals receive information about withdrawal dangers and appropriate prenatal care, prohibits the use of nutraloaf as punishment, and allows individuals to authorize access to their medical records. The bill also requires the Commissioner of Correction to ensure access to productive programming, such as employment and educational opportunities, and mandates the purchase of body scanning machines to reduce invasive searches. Furthermore, it authorizes the State Bond Commission to issue bonds for these initiatives and requires annual reporting on various aspects of correctional practices, aiming to enhance safety, transparency, and the dignity of incarcerated individuals.

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