HB 5396 amends the Joe Coleman Act to ensure the just and efficient implementation of the medical release process. This bill provides minor but important clarifications/fixes to implement the bill as it was originally intended.

• Access to Medical Release: Requires the Prisoner Review Board (PRB) to consider all eligible cases without imposing additional restrictions for medical release eligibility.
• Transparency in Hearings: Ensures public notice of medical release hearings. It allows public access to hearings, promoting transparency and community involvement.
• Access to Medical Records: Requires the PRB to provide medical evaluations and records to the petitioner or their attorney, facilitating a fair review process.
• Public Decision Letters: In cases of denial, the PRB must publish a detailed decision letter, including reasons for denial, considerations of statutory factors, and the financial implications of continued incarceration.

• Cost Savings: Highligts the financial burden of continued incarceration, especially for medical care, encouraging more economically sound decisions.
• Increased Transparency: The public nature of hearings and decision-making processes allows for greater accountability and community trust in the justice system.
• Supports Rehabilitation Goals: Aligns with efforts to treat incarcerated individuals with dignity, especially those with significant medical needs, facilitating their transition out of the prison system.