Minnesota House Bill HF682

Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/25
• Refer: 2/13/25

Caption

Standards of basic medical care established for confined or incarcerated persons, information release forms provided, portable recording system required for correctional facility and jail staff and correctional officers, and money appropriated.

Impact

If passed, HF682 would amend Minnesota Statutes to require that only licensed medical personnel make decisions regarding the medical care of incarcerated persons. It holds facilities accountable for failures to provide medical care, categorizing such failures as deliberate indifference to medical needs, which can give rise to legal actions by affected individuals or their heirs. This could significantly alter the landscape of healthcare provision within correctional facilities, pushing them towards higher compliance with healthcare standards and training.

Summary

House File 682 (HF682) is a legislative proposal aimed at establishing standards for basic medical care for individuals who are confined or incarcerated in correctional facilities and jails in Minnesota. The bill outlines specific types of medical care to be provided, including emergency care, ongoing treatment for existing health conditions, mental health care, and providing necessary prescriptions and medical devices. The intent of these provisions is to ensure that incarcerated individuals receive adequate healthcare, thereby potentially reducing the risks of serious health consequences due to inadequate medical attention.

Contention

The incorporation of portable recording systems for correctional officers to document interactions with incarcerated individuals is another notable aspect of HF682. This provision aims to enhance transparency and accountability in correctional settings, potentially reducing cases of abuse or neglect. However, this may also raise concerns among law enforcement and correctional staff regarding surveillance and privacy issues. Overall, while the bill seems to promote the health and rights of incarcerated individuals, it also presents challenges regarding enforcement and resistance from correctional facilities that may view these requirements as burdensome.

Appropriation

Additionally, HF682 stipulates an appropriation of $370,000 for fiscal year 2026 to fund initiatives supporting proper medical care and advocacy for those incarcerated. This funding is intended to bolster training for staff within correctional facilities about the obligations under the proposed standards, which might help address challenges related to compliance and effective implementation of the legislation.