SB 598

This bill requires the Department of Health Services to submit a request to the secretary of the federal Department of Health and Human Services for a waiver of federal Medicaid law to conduct a demonstration project to provide prerelease coverage to incarcerated individuals for case management services, medication-assisted treatment for all types of substance use disorders, and a 30-day supply of prescription medications under the Medical Assistance program for up to 90 days before release if the individual is otherwise eligible for coverage under the Medical Assistance program. The bill provides that if the waiver is approved, DHS must provide reimbursement under the Medical Assistance program for both the federal and nonfederal share of these services, to the extent approved under the waiver. The Medical Assistance program is a joint state and federal program that provides health services to individuals who have limited financial resources. Under the bill, DHS must submit the request for a waiver no later than January 1, 2027.