Review the below talking points document to learn more about Medically Frail Reform (Senate Bill 599).
Medically frail parole was passed with bipartisan support, with the support of the Michigan Department of Corrections and with a neutral stance from the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan in 2019. Medically frail parole is reserved for people who by definition pose no threat to the public due to a permanent, serious, or terminal condition and/or a disabling mental disorder that significantly impairs one’s ability to perform daily living activities (such as walking or standing) without assistance.
Due to unforeseen issues with statutory definitions, release procedures and available placements, only one person has been paroled under this law since it passed almost five years ago. SB 599, which has bipartisan support, corrects the issues in the original bill and will help the law function as it was intended.
If the law is utilized properly, the state could save millions of dollars annually with no impact on public safety. This is a win-win that the Legislature should pass now. Parole for medically frail people allows MDOC to:
1. focus on its core functions (instead of complex health care needs),
2. transition medically frail people into more appropriate care, and
3. shift the cost of their care from the General Fund to Medicaid (70% federal dollars), Medicare or private insurance in some cases.
Download>> Medically Frail Talking Points