The bill aims to enhance medical services for individuals in juvenile detention facilities by ensuring continuity of Medicaid coverage for incarcerated youth. It introduces new provisions that require the health care authority to work with local providers to facilitate a smooth transition of care upon release from detention. The bill amends existing laws to clarify that medical assistance benefits should be suspended rather than terminated for individuals confined in correctional facilities or institutions operated by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families. It also mandates that individuals who were enrolled in Medicaid prior to confinement have their coverage reinstated immediately upon release.

Additionally, the bill establishes new sections that require the health care authority to collaborate with various organizations to implement screening and diagnostic services for eligible juveniles in the 30 days prior to release, as well as targeted case management services for at least 30 days post-release. It also outlines the authority's responsibility to apply for a waiver to provide Medicaid services to confined individuals up to 30 days before their release. The bill includes provisions for reporting on the implementation status and collaboration efforts by December 1, 2025, and sets expiration dates for certain sections by July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 74.09.555, 9.94.049
Substitute Bill: 74.09.555, 71.24.715
Engrossed Substitute: 74.09.555, 71.24.715
Bill as Passed Legislature: 74.09.555, 71.24.715