Bill > H2659

This bill proposes to eliminate medical and health service fees for incarcerated individuals in Massachusetts by amending Chapter 124 of the General Laws. Specifically, the legislation removes the current provision that allows the commissioner to charge inmates fees for medical and mental health services, including prescriptions, medications, and prosthetic devices. The bill expands the definition of medical services to include inmate-initiated medical visits and mental health services. Additionally, it mandates that the Department of Correction provide durable medical equipment and medical supplies at no cost to incarcerated individuals when these items are medically necessary. The bill defines durable medical equipment as reusable items prescribed by licensed healthcare providers to address medical needs, such as eyeglasses, artificial limbs, dentures, and hearing aids. Medical supplies are defined as disposable items prescribed for medical purposes, like those used in outpatient settings. The Department of Correction is required to implement these changes within one year of the bill's passage, ensuring that incarcerated individuals have access to essential medical services without financial burden.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2659