# Plain Language Summary: Due Process Continuity of Care Act

Right now, there's a federal rule that prevents people from getting Medicaid (the government health insurance program for low-income people) while they're sitting in jail waiting for their court case to be resolved. This bill would change that rule and allow states to cover these people with Medicaid if they choose to do so. Essentially, it removes a blanket ban and gives states the option to provide health coverage to people in local jails who haven't been convicted yet—they're just waiting for their charges to be decided.

The practical impact is that people in this situation could get access to medical care, mental health treatment, and substance abuse services through Medicaid instead of relying only on whatever limited care their jail provides. This matters because many people in local jails have serious health issues, including addiction and mental illness, and getting treatment while they're waiting for trial could help them get healthier and potentially reduce their chances of reoffending. For states that choose to participate, this means they'd need to figure out how to work with jails and healthcare providers to make this happen.

To help states prepare for this change, the bill provides $50 million in planning grants. States that want to participate would need to apply for these grants and develop a plan showing how they'll recruit doctors and other healthcare providers willing to treat people in custody, set up the billing systems to pay for this care, and make sure the quality of treatment is good. The bill requires states to work with jails, law enforcement, healthcare providers, and patient advocates to develop these plans. The changes would take effect about 60 days after the bill becomes law, giving states time to get ready.

Due Process Continuity of Care Act

Trone, David J.

Due Process Continuity of Care Act This bill allows an otherwise eligible individual who&nbsp;is in custody pending disposition of charges (i.e., pretrial detainees) to receive Medicaid benefits at the option of the state. The bill also provides for state planning grants to support the provision of such benefits.