Vermont House Bill H0815

Vermont 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/24
• Refer: 1/16/24
• Refer: 1/25/24

Caption

An act relating to health equity training in correctional facilities and to community-based mental health and substance use disorder services for detained or incarcerated individuals and individuals reentering the community

Impact

The legislation seeks to amend existing practices by ensuring that detainees and formerly incarcerated individuals receive timely and accessible mental health care. By appropriating funds for integrating health care access with social services, the bill fosters a smoother transition for individuals as they rejoin their communities. Additionally, it also aims to enhance the quality of care offered in correctional settings by requiring ongoing health equity training for all correctional staff, which is anticipated to lead to better health outcomes for this vulnerable population.

Summary

House Bill H0815 aims to address critical health disparities for justice-involved individuals by establishing community-based mental health and substance use disorder services. The bill emphasizes the necessity of training for state staff and contractors within correctional facilities to provide adequate support during and after incarceration. Recognizing the higher prevalence of chronic health conditions among incarcerated individuals, the bill proposes the creation of a fund to support mental health services and case management both within correctional settings and for individuals reentering society after release.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding H0815 primarily involve concerns regarding funding allocation and its long-term effectiveness. Critics may question whether the proposed measures effectively address systemic issues in mental health care delivery and correctional practices or if they merely serve as a temporary fix. Additionally, there is a discussion about the balance between adequate training for staff and the immediate need for more resources and services dedicated to the rising population of individuals with mental health and substance use issues in the correctional system.