Researcher: JO Page 1 4/19/22
OLR Bill Analysis
sSB 458
AN ACT CONCERNING THE PROVISION OF SUBSTANCE USE
DISORDER SERVICES AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES TO
INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE INCARCERATED.
SUMMARY
This bill requires the Department of Correction (DOC) commissioner
to annually review, evaluate, and make recommendations on (1)
substance use disorder and mental health screening, diagnostic, and
treatment services available to individuals who are incarcerated,
throughout their entire incarceration and (2) reintegrating these
individuals into the community. In doing so, the commissioner must
consult with the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services
and the judicial branch.
The bill requires the DOC commissioner, starting by January 1, 2023,
to annually report on this review to the Judiciary, Public Health, and
Appropriations committees.
It also repeals an obsolete reporting provision.
EFFECTIVE DATE: Upon passage
BACKGROUND
Related Bill
sSB 448 (File 452), reported favorably by the Public Health
Committee, sets various requirements related to health care for people
who are incarcerated, such as requiring the DOC commissioner to
ensure that there are enough licensed mental health care providers at
correctional institutions (including at least four per institution with
experience in substance use disorder diagnosis and treatment).
COMMITTEE ACTION
Judiciary Committee
Joint Favorable Substitute
Yea 37 Nay 0 (03/31/2022)