Kansas House Bill HB2071

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23
• Report Pass: 2/6/23

Caption

Extending terminal medical release to inmates in the custody of the department of corrections with a condition likely to cause death within 120 days.

Impact

If passed, HB 2071 would notably impact existing statutes regarding the management of inmates' health care, especially for those in critical and terminal conditions. It signifies a shift towards more humane policies in the correctional system, representing a recognition of the medical needs of incarcerated individuals. By allowing for medical releases based on terminal diagnoses, the legislation could potentially reduce the number of inmates who suffer without adequate medical care in correctional facilities.

Summary

House Bill 2071 aims to extend terminal medical release provisions to inmates within the custody of the Department of Corrections who are diagnosed with conditions likely to cause death within 120 days. The bill serves as a compassionate measure, addressing the needs of terminally ill inmates by allowing them to be released from incarceration under specific medical circumstances, which proponents argue is essential for humane treatment during their final days. This improvement in policy also aligns with broader societal values emphasizing compassion in correctional practices.

Contention

While many legislators support the bill due to its empathetic approach, concerns have been raised about the criteria for determining eligibility for medical release. Critics may argue that without precise guidelines, there could be inconsistencies in decision-making processes, potentially leading to disparities in who is granted release. Additionally, some may express fears regarding safety implications and public perception surrounding the release of inmates for medical reasons, raising questions about community impact and accountability.