This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to provide state-funded medical assistance and MinnesotaCare for inmates of county jails. Specifically, it allows individuals incarcerated in county jails to be eligible for medical assistance without federal financial participation, provided they meet the necessary eligibility requirements. The bill also clarifies that individuals who are inmates of public institutions are not eligible for federally funded assistance, except for certain inpatient medical services. Additionally, it establishes that inmates in county jails can qualify for state-funded MinnesotaCare, as long as they meet all other eligibility criteria.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of county boards regarding medical aid for prisoners, ensuring that costs do not exceed the maximum allowed medical assistance payment rates. It allows counties to assist inmates in applying for medical assistance and MinnesotaCare, reinforcing the support for healthcare access among incarcerated individuals. The legislation aims to improve healthcare access for inmates while ensuring that counties are not financially burdened beyond established limits.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 256B.055, 256L.04, 641.15