New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S00614

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  
Report Pass
4/8/25  
Engrossed
6/11/25  
Refer
6/11/25  
Refer
1/7/26  

Caption

Provides for enrollment of eligible incarcerated persons in the medical assistance for needy persons program; provides for enrollment of incarcerated individuals in other medical assistance programs, where eligible.

Impact

If enacted, S00614 would amend existing social services and correction laws to implement these presumptive eligibility rules. The bill mandates that the commissioner of health take necessary actions to secure federal financial aid related to these amendments and develop educational materials for individuals exiting correctional facilities. This would not only impact the administrative processes within correctional facilities but also influence health policy by potentially reducing recidivism linked to untreated health issues that often plague former inmates.

Summary

Bill S00614 aims to provide presumptive eligibility for medical assistance benefits for individuals released from correctional facilities after a minimum of sixty days. This legislative measure seeks to ensure that individuals are enrolled in necessary medical programs immediately upon release, thus facilitating a smoother transition back into society. By instituting this process, the bill's proponents believe it will help reduce potential gaps in health coverage that may affect recently released individuals, who often face various challenges in accessing medical care post-incarceration.

Contention

Notable points of contention around S00614 may arise from concerns regarding the potential costs involved in expanding medical assistance under this bill. Critics could argue about the financial implications for state budgets, especially if the federal participation funds are uncertain or insufficient. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the effectiveness of presumptive eligibility in actually improving reentry outcomes compared to existing protocols. Such debates could involve stakeholders from various sectors, including healthcare, corrections, and social services.

Companion Bills

NY A01008

Same As Provides presumptive eligibility for medical assistance benefits for persons released from correctional facilities for at least sixty days following release; provides for enrollment of such individuals upon release upon application, if eligible.

NY A00269

Same As Provides for enrollment of eligible incarcerated persons in the medical assistance for needy persons program; provides for enrollment of incarcerated individuals in other medical assistance programs, where eligible.

Previously Filed As

NY A00269

Provides for enrollment of eligible incarcerated persons in the medical assistance for needy persons program; provides for enrollment of incarcerated individuals in other medical assistance programs, where eligible.

NY A03399

Requires screening incarcerated individuals for eligibility for public benefits prior to release and assistance in applying for such programs; requires officials to seek waivers from the USDA for eligibility for such program.

NY S05265

Requires screening incarcerated individuals for eligibility for public benefits prior to release and assistance in applying for such programs; requires officials to seek waivers from the USDA for eligibility for such program.

NY HB282

In public assistance, further providing for persons eligible for medical assistance.

NY HB1606

In public assistance, further providing for personal needs allowance deduction for medical assistance-eligible persons in nursing facilities.

NY SB61

Public assistance; regular cross-checks required for Medicaid and food assistance eligibly, categorical eligibly for food assistance prohibited, eligibility for food assistance further provided for

NY HB268

In public assistance, further providing for the medically needy and determination of eligibility.

NY A01008

Provides presumptive eligibility for medical assistance benefits for persons released from correctional facilities for at least sixty days following release; provides for enrollment of such individuals upon release upon application, if eligible.

NY A4410

Prohibits incarcerated individuals from receiving Medicaid, Work First New Jersey, or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.

NY S10135

Requires automatic continuous enrollment in medical assistance and child health plus for previously eligible children through age five.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.