Healthcare Before Release Saves Lives—Support the Reentry Act

According to a recent study, individuals recently released from incarceration are at a significantly higher risk of drug overdose compared to the general population. For opioid users, that number could be as high as 10 times higher than the general public and their chances of dying of an overdose are up to 129 times higher in the first two weeks of release.

People in prison suffering from substance abuse disorder have a better chance of breaking dependency when they have access to treatment. This can help them begin recovery, and position them for a successful reentry back into society and the earlier they get it, the more successful they are likely to be. Unfortunately, current federal law prohibits many people behind bars from getting Medicaid until after release, creating an unnecessary gap in care that leaves the recently released vulnerable to relapse and overdose.

To rectify this, a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers have introduced the “Reentry Act.” The bill would authorize Medicaid coverage for incarcerated individuals during the 30-day period preceding their release and aims to address critical health challenges faced by individuals transitioning from incarceration to community life.

Restoring benefits for Medicaid-eligible Americans prior to release, would ensure their access to the mental health and addiction support they need for a successful return to the wider community. It is our best chance at combating the disease of addiction for new releases who face the most immediate risk. In short, the Reentry Act would save lives, lower costs, and reduce these individuals’ chances of returning to prison.

This is a simple, bipartisan piece of legislation that could poke a hole in the still ballooning overdose figures in our nation. Our lawmakers should jump at the opportunity to give some of the most vulnerable Americans the chance at a new life after incarceration, one that gives them the best shot at fighting their substance dependency and rejoining society. Tell your representatives that you want them to pass the Reentry Act. Sign the petition now.

Tell your congressperson to vote YES on the Reentry Act

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Dear Legislator,

I am writing to express my strong support for the Reentry Act, a bipartisan piece of legislation that aims to address a critical gap in healthcare access for individuals recently released from incarceration. This bill would authorize Medicaid coverage for incarcerated individuals during the 30 days leading up to their release, providing vital access to mental health and addiction treatment services when they are most vulnerable.

Recent studies have shown that individuals recently released from prison face a 10 times higher risk of overdose than the general population, with the risk of death from being up to 129 times higher in the first two weeks after release.

The lack of continuity in care during the transition from incarceration to the community is a key factor in these tragic outcomes. Many individuals incarcerated in the U.S. suffer from substance use disorders and mental health conditions, and while behind bars, many have limited access to the treatment they need. Restoring Medicaid benefits during the 30 days prior to release will help ensure that these individuals have access to the treatment and support they need to combat addiction, improve their mental health, and reduce their risk of relapse and overdose.

By passing the Reentry Act, Congress would not only help save lives but also reduce recidivism and improve the chances of successful reentry into society. Without access to care, many individuals find themselves caught in a vicious cycle of relapse and reincarceration, further straining our criminal justice system and our communities.

This is a straightforward and impactful piece of legislation that will help some of the most vulnerable people in our society get the treatment they need to reintegrate successfully. I urge you to support the Reentry Act and help make a meaningful difference in the lives of those most at risk.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue. I look forward to your support for the Reentry Act and the lifesaving benefits it will provide.