MS SB2698

MDOC must reimburse counties for all medical expenses of state prisoners housed in county jails due to lack of capacity at state correctional institutions, including medical care services, prescription drugs, and durable and nondurable goods.

Counties may request reimbursement from MDOC for counsel fees and expenses incurred in prosecuting state offenders who commit crimes while in state correctional facilities or county jails.

Reimbursement for counsel fees under the new provision is available only for cases in which legal counsel is appointed on or after July 1, 2020.

MDOC continues to reimburse counties for food and housing costs at up to $20.00 per day per offender, with medical costs now added to the state's financial responsibility.

The act takes effect July 1, 2020.