LINCOLN — Nebraska lawmakers have debated, but no vote has been made over a bill that would charge jail and prison inmates a copay.
Senator Tyson Larson of O’Neill proposed the measure and says it stems from county sheriff’s complaining about inmates abusing the system to get time away from jail.
The copays would be up to $10 for every self-initiated, non-emergency visit to a health care provider. Exceptions are treatment for mental health, pre-existing conditions and chronic illnes.
Opponents are worried it could discourage inmates from seeking medical help when needed.
38 states and the federal government have similar policies.
