Senator Scheibel extends free phone call program for incarcerated women in Nevada
May 31, 2025 | 2025 Legislature NV, Nevada
This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »
The Assembly Committee on Ways and Means convened on May 31, 2025, to discuss several key legislative proposals impacting health care and corrections in Nevada. The meeting focused on two primary bills: Senate Bill 217 and Senate Bill 323.
The first item on the agenda was Senate Bill 217, which aims to provide coverage for infertility treatments through health plans. A representative highlighted that the estimated cost for this coverage would be approximately 67 cents per member per month. This initiative is designed to support families struggling with infertility, allowing the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to draw down federal funds to assist with implementation. The speaker emphasized the importance of this bill, noting that it addresses a critical medical need for families and aims to alleviate some of the emotional and financial burdens associated with infertility treatments.
Following the discussion on Senate Bill 217, the committee moved on to Senate Bill 323, presented by State Senator Melanie Scheibel. This bill seeks to continue a successful pilot program that allows incarcerated individuals at the Florence McClure Women’s Facility to make 15 minutes of free phone calls each day. Senator Scheibel reported that the program has significantly improved the quality of life for inmates, reduced recidivism rates, and created a safer environment within the facility. The estimated fiscal impact of the program is around $500,000, which reflects a worst-case scenario if no discounts are negotiated with the phone service provider. The senator argued that the benefits of the program far outweigh the costs, as it fosters community connections and reduces conflicts among inmates and staff.
The committee then opened the floor for public testimony regarding Senate Bill 323. However, no individuals came forward to express support, opposition, or neutral opinions on the bill. After closing the hearing on Senate Bill 323, the committee proceeded to public comment, but again, no participants were present to share their views.
In conclusion, the meeting addressed significant legislative efforts aimed at improving health care access for families facing infertility and enhancing communication for incarcerated individuals. The committee plans to reconvene the following day at 10 AM, with no additional agenda items scheduled for the morning.
The first item on the agenda was Senate Bill 217, which aims to provide coverage for infertility treatments through health plans. A representative highlighted that the estimated cost for this coverage would be approximately 67 cents per member per month. This initiative is designed to support families struggling with infertility, allowing the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to draw down federal funds to assist with implementation. The speaker emphasized the importance of this bill, noting that it addresses a critical medical need for families and aims to alleviate some of the emotional and financial burdens associated with infertility treatments.
Following the discussion on Senate Bill 217, the committee moved on to Senate Bill 323, presented by State Senator Melanie Scheibel. This bill seeks to continue a successful pilot program that allows incarcerated individuals at the Florence McClure Women’s Facility to make 15 minutes of free phone calls each day. Senator Scheibel reported that the program has significantly improved the quality of life for inmates, reduced recidivism rates, and created a safer environment within the facility. The estimated fiscal impact of the program is around $500,000, which reflects a worst-case scenario if no discounts are negotiated with the phone service provider. The senator argued that the benefits of the program far outweigh the costs, as it fosters community connections and reduces conflicts among inmates and staff.
The committee then opened the floor for public testimony regarding Senate Bill 323. However, no individuals came forward to express support, opposition, or neutral opinions on the bill. After closing the hearing on Senate Bill 323, the committee proceeded to public comment, but again, no participants were present to share their views.
In conclusion, the meeting addressed significant legislative efforts aimed at improving health care access for families facing infertility and enhancing communication for incarcerated individuals. The committee plans to reconvene the following day at 10 AM, with no additional agenda items scheduled for the morning.
View full meeting
This article is based on a recent meeting—watch the full video and explore the complete transcript for deeper insights into the discussion.
View full meeting