Substitute House Bill No. 5567 aims to improve health care services and oversight for incarcerated individuals within the Department of Correction (DOC) by establishing the Office of the Correction Ombuds. This office will evaluate health care delivery, conduct site visits, and allow incarcerated individuals to communicate with the Ombuds free of charge. Key provisions include the insertion of language that enables the Ombuds to conduct unannounced site visits and evaluate health care services, while deleting the requirement for individuals to pursue internal grievance procedures before complaints can be investigated. The bill also emphasizes confidentiality in communications and findings, modifies consultation timelines for critical decisions, and allows the Ombuds to recommend policy changes and issue subpoenas.

Additionally, the bill mandates the provision of free health care services, the establishment of an electronic health records system, and the hiring of a Correction Mental Health Care Clinician. It prohibits any fees for health care services starting July 1, 2026, and requires the DOC to ensure timely access to medically necessary procedures. The legislation also creates a Correction Medical and Health Commission to oversee health care improvements and develop a long-term plan, while introducing a student loan reimbursement program for nurses and social workers employed by the DOC. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the quality and accessibility of health care for incarcerated individuals, ensuring accountability and oversight within the DOC.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 18-81ll, 54-91a, 18-96a, 18-81, 18-100j
JUD Joint Favorable Substitute: 18-81ll, 54-91a, 18-96a, 18-81, 18-100j
File No. 602: 18-81ll, 54-91a, 18-96a, 18-81, 18-100j
APP Joint Favorable: 18-81ll, 54-91a, 18-96a, 18-81, 18-100j
File No. 750: 18-81ll, 54-91a, 18-100j