Bill > LD18

This bill increases the medical and dental fees that the Commissioner of Corrections can charge clients in correctional and detention facilities from $5 to $25 for each medical or dental visit, prescription, medication, or prosthetic device. The bill requires that the proceeds from these fees first be used to pay client workers who support medical care and related services for other clients, such as those assisting clients receiving hospice services or helping clients with disabilities with daily activities. The bill maintains existing exemptions from these fees for certain groups, including juveniles, pregnant individuals, people with serious mental illnesses or developmental disabilities, those receiving treatment initiated by facility staff, inpatients at state-funded mental health facilities, those undergoing follow-up or emergency treatment, and clients with less than $15 in their facility account. Additionally, the bill preserves the state's ability to pursue civil actions to recover medical expenses, with certain limitations on assets that can be subject to judgment. The changes aim to offset medical care costs while providing a mechanism for client workers to be compensated for supporting medical services within correctional facilities.

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https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=18&snum=132