Assembly Bill 604 mandates the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) to request a waiver from the federal Department of Health and Human Services to implement a demonstration project aimed at providing prerelease health care coverage for incarcerated individuals under the Medical Assistance program. This coverage would include case management services, medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorders, and a 30-day supply of prescription medications, available for up to 90 days prior to an individual's release, provided they are otherwise eligible for Medical Assistance. The bill stipulates that DHS must submit this waiver request by January 1, 2027.

If the waiver is approved, the bill requires DHS to reimburse both the federal and nonfederal shares of the services provided to incarcerated individuals, as permitted under the waiver. This initiative is designed to enhance health care access for individuals transitioning from incarceration, thereby potentially improving their health outcomes and reducing recidivism rates.