Dayton Reporter

Congressman Mike Turner has collaborated with Representatives Sylvester Turner, John Rutherford, and Paul Tonko to reintroduce the Due Process Continuity of Care Act. This bipartisan legislation aims to address health care coverage gaps for individuals in pretrial detention by ensuring they 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. He emphasized that the bill offers a practical solution to prevent untreated health conditions from escalating, thereby reducing burdens on local law enforcement and helping communities avoid higher long-term costs.

Congressman Sylvester Turner stated, “Our justice system is built on the principle of innocence until proven guilty. 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.”

Former sheriff Congressman John Rutherford highlighted the importance of continuity of care within the justice system: “Maintaining Medicaid access pretrial protects due process, reduces recidivism, and improves public safety.”

Congressman Paul Tonko added his perspective based on his congressional experience: “Throughout my time in Congress, I have worked to expand access to addiction treatment and support vulnerable communities. 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.”

The current Medicaid Inmate Exclusion Policy removes Medicaid coverage from individuals in custody during pretrial detention. This policy disproportionately affects those unable to afford bail, disrupting their healthcare access and shifting costs onto local jails and taxpayers.

Pretrial detainees often experience higher rates of mental health issues and substance use disorders than the general population. Losing treatment access while in custody can worsen chronic conditions, increase crises, and lead to higher costs. Delays in restoring health benefits post-release frequently leave individuals without necessary care, perpetuating a cycle of untreated conditions and re-arrest.

Restoring Medicaid coverage for pretrial detainees aims to promote fairness, improve public safety, and ensure healthcare access for those presumed innocent under the law.