WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mike Turner (OH-10) joined Representatives Sylvester Turner (TX-18), John Rutherford (FL-05), and Paul Tonko (NY-20) to reintroduce the Due Process Continuity of Care Act, bipartisan legislation to address gaps in health care coverage for individuals in pretrial detention. The bill ensures that pretrial detainees who have not been convicted of a crime retain access to Medicaid while awaiting trial.
“Ensuring access to necessary medical care for individuals awaiting trial is not just a matter of fairness—it’s a matter of public safety and fiscal responsibility,” said Congressman Mike Turner. “This legislation provides a practical solution to prevent untreated health conditions from escalating, reduces burdens on local law enforcement, and helps communities avoid higher long-term costs.”
“Our justice system is built on the principle of innocence until proven guilty,” said Congressman Sylvester Turner. “Denying health care to those awaiting trial is both unjust and harmful. This legislation ensures access to care, reduces costs for local governments, and helps prevent untreated health conditions from leading to recidivism.”
“As a former sheriff, I know continuity of care is critical for individuals in the justice system,” said Congressman John Rutherford. “Maintaining Medicaid access pretrial protects due process, reduces recidivism, and improves public safety.”
“Throughout my time in Congress, I have worked to expand access to addiction treatment and support vulnerable communities,” said Congressman Paul Tonko. “The Due Process Continuity of Care Act ensures individuals not convicted of a crime retain lifesaving Medicaid coverage. This legislation will save lives, protect due process, and reduce recidivism.”
Background:
Under current law, the Medicaid Inmate Exclusion Policy strips Medicaid coverage from individuals in custody, even if they are only in pretrial detention. This policy disproportionately impacts those unable to afford bail, and it disrupts access to health care and shifts costs to local jails and taxpayers.
Pretrial detainees face higher rates of mental health conditions and substance use disorders compared to the general population. Losing access to treatment while in custody worsens chronic conditions, increases crises, and leads to higher costs. Delays in restoring health benefits after release often leave individuals without care, creating a cycle of untreated conditions and re-arrest.
Restoring Medicaid coverage for pretrial detainees promotes fairness, improves public safety, and ensures access to health care for those presumed innocent under the law.