Minnesota is moving forward with a new initiative to provide behavioral health services to people before they’re released from jail or prison. Pending federal approval, eligible inmates at eight pilot sites, including the Red Lake Detention Center in northwest Minnesota, could receive Medicaid-covered mental health, substance use, and chronic health care services during the 60 days before release beginning in 2028. 

State officials say the program aims to reduce overdose deaths, improve public safety, and help people successfully transition back into their communities. Minnesota plans to expand the program statewide after evaluating the pilot.