NJ
New Jersey Assembly Bill A2057

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A2057

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Requires inmate to participate in Medicaid enrollment session 60 days prior to release.

Impact

The implementation of A2057 is expected to have significant effects on state laws related to healthcare access for released inmates. By mandating participation in Medicaid enrollment sessions, the bill aims to increase the number of former inmates who can access necessary healthcare services upon reentry. This could lead to improved public health outcomes by addressing the healthcare needs of a vulnerable population that often faces barriers to care. In addition, the bill is likely to streamline the enrollment process for Medicaid, making it easier for individuals who have previously been incarcerated to receive ongoing health services.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2057 requires that inmates in state prisons or county correctional facilities participate in a Medicaid enrollment session at least 60 days before their release. The primary objective of this bill is to facilitate a smoother transition for inmates back into society by ensuring they have access to healthcare benefits through Medicaid upon their release. Trained personnel from county welfare agencies or designated correctional facility staff will assist inmates in completing the Medicaid application and ensure that it is submitted for processing. This initiative stems from the 2019 New Jersey Reentry Services Commission Report, which emphasized the need for improved reentry services for individuals leaving incarceration.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support from various advocacy groups focused on improving health access for former inmates, some concerns have been raised regarding the opt-out provision. Inmates who choose not to participate in the Medicaid enrollment session are required to document their decision, but critics argue that many may lack the understanding or support to make an informed choice about such a significant health benefit. Additionally, some legislators may continue to debate the adequacy of healthcare services provided to incarcerated individuals and whether the bill sufficiently addresses issues surrounding the long-term care needs of this population post-release.

Companion Bills

NJ S2235

Same As Requires inmate to participate in Medicaid enrollment session 60 days prior to release.

NJ A1243

Carry Over Requires inmate to participate in Medicaid enrollment session 60 days prior to release.

NJ S2471

Carry Over Requires inmate to participate in Medicaid enrollment session 60 days prior to release.

Previously Filed As

NJ A1243

Requires inmate to participate in Medicaid enrollment session 60 days prior to release.

NJ S2235

Requires inmate to participate in Medicaid enrollment session 60 days prior to release.

NJ S2471

Requires inmate to participate in Medicaid enrollment session 60 days prior to release.

NJ A2828

Requires DOC to ensure inmates have opportunity to participate in Medicaid pre-enrollment and enrollment sessions at least 60 days prior to release; requires applicable inmates to receive Medicaid card at release.

NJ A657

Requires DOC to ensure inmates have opportunity to participate in Medicaid pre-enrollment and enrollment sessions at least 60 days prior to release; requires applicable inmates to receive Medicaid card at release.

NJ A1994

Requires DOC to provide reunification therapy to inmates and immediate family members prior to inmate's release.

NJ A4191

Requires DOC to provide reunification therapy to inmates and immediate family members prior to inmate's release.

NJ S1198

Requires establishment of processes to identify Medicaid eligible incarcerated individuals who are awaiting pre-trial release determinations, are being released following period of incarceration, or are undergoing inpatient hospital treatment.

NJ A1395

Requires female inmates be provided with family planning services prior to release from correctional facility.

NJ A3108

Requires female inmates be provided with family planning services prior to release from correctional facility.

Similar Bills

UT SB0257

Medicaid Accounts Amendments

UT HB0247

Child Health Care Coverage Amendments

AR SB518

To Amend The Medicaid Fraud Act And The Medicaid Fraud False Claims Act; And To Update Language And Definitions To Reflect Changes Within The Healthcare System;.

AR SB515

To Amend The Medicaid Fraud Act And The Medicaid Fraud False Claims Act.

UT HB0463

Medicaid Funding Amendments

NJ A3334

Requires Medicaid reimbursement for covered behavioral health services provided by local education agency to student who is eligible Medicaid beneficiary.

NJ S2416

Requires Medicaid reimbursement for covered behavioral health services provided by local education agency to student who is eligible Medicaid beneficiary.

NJ S3495

Provides for presumptive eligibility for home and community-based services and services provided through program of all-inclusive care for the elderly under Medicaid.