Bill > HB643

This bill revises the reimbursement process for detention centers holding inmates in state custody by updating how "actual costs" are defined and calculating payment rates for different agencies. The bill modifies existing law to clarify that local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies can use detention centers for confining and punishing offenders, with the requirement that the arresting agency pay the actual costs of holding an individual. The definition of "actual costs" is expanded to be the greater of either the daily per inmate provider rate for a private correctional facility in Montana with over 500 state inmates (minus 10%), or $82 per day. Additionally, the bill includes a $6 million appropriation for the Department of Public Health and Human Services to reimburse counties for holding certain individuals awaiting evaluation or facility placement, with reimbursement set at 135% of the daily per inmate provider rate. The legislation is specifically designed as a one-time appropriation and will terminate on June 30, 2027, ensuring temporary financial support for detention centers and clarifying cost-sharing responsibilities among various state agencies.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2222