Provides for health insurance policy coverage of incarcerated persons prior to adjudication. (8/1/18)
Impact
The enactment of SB 272 introduces significant changes to health insurance norms for incarcerated persons. By clarifying that prisoners in pretrial detention are entitled to health insurance benefits, the bill aims to reduce health disparities faced by incarcerated individuals, many of whom might not have access to necessary medical treatments in the absence of insurance coverage. This will potentially impact insurance providers by requiring them to adjust their policies to conform to this new legal obligation, influencing how health care is provided within correctional facilities.
Summary
Senate Bill 272 mandates that health insurance policies in Louisiana must provide coverage for health care services to incarcerated individuals who have not been adjudicated or convicted of a crime. This requirement extends to various types of health insurance plans, including group plans and self-insurance plans, effective from January 1, 2019. The intention behind this legislation is to ensure that individuals in detention facilities have access to necessary medical care while they await their trial, acknowledging their rights to health care under the existing insurance policies, provided their premiums are paid and the coverage is current.
Sentiment
The prevailing sentiment surrounding SB 272 appears largely supportive among legislators who acknowledge the human rights aspect of providing medical care to all individuals, regardless of their legal status. Advocates for criminal justice reform and health care equity generally view this bill favorably, seeing it as a positive step towards improving the treatment of incarcerated individuals. Nonetheless, there may be concerns expressed by some fiscal conservatives about the potential increase in insurance costs resulting from mandated coverage for this population.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SB 272 could include debates regarding the responsibilities of health insurance providers in relation to incarcerated individuals and the implications for state health care costs. Some critics might argue against the financial burden this bill could impose on insurance agencies and public health systems, questioning the sustainability of offering such coverage. Moreover, the bill raises broader questions about the state's role in ensuring health care for individuals who have not yet been convicted, with advocates calling for a shift towards more humane treatment while opponents may emphasize the costs associated with such reforms.