U.S. Rep. Mike Turner (R-OH) on March 30 introduced a bipartisan bill that would allow states to make medical assistance available to inmates during the 30-day period preceding their release from prison to preemptively combat the opioid crisis and recidivism.
“I am proud to introduce this important bipartisan legislation that will save lives by helping communities in Ohio and across the country combat the opioid epidemic,” Rep. Turner said.
Specifically, the Reentry Act, H.R. 2400, which is sponsored by U.S. Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY), aims to empower states to restore access to health care, including addiction and mental health treatment, through Medicaid for incarcerated individuals up to 30 days before their release, according to a fact sheet provided by Rep. Turner’s staff.
“Recidivism and rates of overdose are disproportionately high among those who have recently been released from prison,” said Rep. Turner. “The Reentry Act permits eligible incarcerated persons to begin receiving Medicaid benefits 30 days prior to their release from prison so that they can begin treatment for substance abuse during an especially vulnerable period.”
Among the 12 other members who joined Rep. Turner as a cosponsor of H.R. 2400 are U.S. Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Don Bacon (R-NE), Dave Joyce (R-OH), John Curtis (R-UT), and Kelly Armstrong (R-ND).
“Communities across the nation are grappling with the devastating, and worsening impacts of the overdose crisis, and for individuals returning home from incarceration, the dangers of this epidemic are exponentially greater,” said Rep. Tonko. “In short, our bill will save lives, lower costs, and reduce recidivism. I urge Congress to join us in advancing the Reentry Act without delay to combat the disease of addiction and provide hope to our communities.”
The Reentry Act has garnered support from more than 60 organizations, including the American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists, the American Counseling Association, the American Jail Association, the American Society of Addiction Medicine, the Association for Behavioral Health and Wellness, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness, among many others.
According to Rep. Turner’s office, U.S. Sens. Mike Braun (R-IN) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) will introduce companion legislation in their chamber.