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Public Health Insurance and Impacts on Crime Incidences and Mental Health

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  • Wagner Kathryn L.

    (Department of Economics, Marquette University, P.O. Box 1881, Milwaukee, WI 53201-1881, USA)

Abstract

This paper evaluates the effect of Medicaid expansions for individuals with disabilities on crime rates and mental health status. Using the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports and the CDC’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Surveys, I estimate the impact of Medicaid using an event study approach. Results indicate a reduction in crime incidence that was strongest in the years immediately following the expansion and dissipated over time. Estimates also suggest a smaller likelihood of one day of poor mental health within the past month, but this impact was short-lived. Analysis suggests that improved alcohol abuse was not a main explanation for mental health improvements. The analysis cannot eliminate whether improvements to non-alcohol substance abuse treatment, financial strain, or access to treatment for other mental illnesses explain the impact to crime and mental health status. Expanding Medicaid shows a degree of impact on both crime and mental health suggesting several policy considerations.

Suggested Citation

  • Wagner Kathryn L., 2021. "Public Health Insurance and Impacts on Crime Incidences and Mental Health," The B.E. Journal of Economic Analysis & Policy, De Gruyter, vol. 21(2), pages 469-510, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:bpj:bejeap:v:21:y:2021:i:2:p:469-510:n:3
    DOI: 10.1515/bejeap-2020-0190
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Marguerite Burns & Laura Dague, 2023. "In-Kind Welfare Benefits and Reincarceration Risk: Evidence from Medicaid," NBER Working Papers 31394, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    2. Brad R. Humphreys & Jane E. Ruseski, "undated". "Legalized Sports Betting and Mental Health," Working Papers 24-04, Department of Economics, West Virginia University.

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