Bill > HB282

This bill modifies medical assistance (Medicaid) provisions for incarcerated individuals in Pennsylvania, introducing a new voluntary reentry program beginning January 1, 2026. The bill changes how medical assistance is handled during incarceration by removing the previous two-year suspension limit and establishing a process for counties to participate in a reentry program. Under the new provisions, medical assistance will be temporarily suspended upon incarceration and can be reactivated upon release, subject to eligibility requirements. The reentry program will provide eligible recipients access to substance use disorder treatment and case management services prior to release from participating correctional institutions. Counties can voluntarily request to join the program by submitting an application to the state department, which will evaluate the county's readiness, capacity, and commitment to providing reentry services. The department is required to submit a performance report to the General Assembly before seeking federal approval to extend the program. This bill aims to improve healthcare continuity and support for incarcerated individuals transitioning back into their communities.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services, Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=282