Medical assistance coverage of tobacco and nicotine cessation treatment modification and expansion
Impact
This bill significantly modifies existing Minnesota statutes by including a broader range of cessation services under the medical assistance umbrella. It mandates that medical assistance programs cover in-person and telephonic counseling services while prohibiting restrictions on the types and durations of these treatment offerings. By eliminating copayment and deductible requirements for cessation services, the bill aims to reduce barriers for individuals seeking support, thereby potentially lowering the rates of tobacco use and improving health metrics across the state.
Summary
Senate File 1320 seeks to enhance the medical assistance coverage matrix by specifically addressing tobacco and nicotine cessation services. The bill proposes to widen the scope of covered services and medications for individuals struggling with tobacco addiction, ensuring that both pharmacotherapy and behavioral treatment modalities are accessible. This expansion is grounded in evidence-based best practices, aiming to enhance public health outcomes by promoting effective cessation strategies.
Contention
While many stakeholders support SF1320 for its progressive approach to public health, there may be contention surrounding the funding and logistics of implementing these expanded services. Opponents might raise concerns regarding budget implications for state-funded health programs and the feasibility of integrating additional services into existing frameworks. Debates could focus on the efficacy of these treatments and whether the proposed changes offer tangible benefits in combating tobacco dependence among diverse populations.
MinnesotaCare and medical assistance enrollee cost-sharing elimination; individual, small group and State Employee Group Insurance Program cost-sharing prohibition
Enrollee cost-sharing eliminated under medical assistance and MinnesotaCare; and individual, small group, and State Employee Group Insurance Program plans prohibited from including cost-sharing.
Sustainable aviation fuel income tax credit and exemptions for data centers and construction of sustainable aviation fuel facilities repealed, increased general fund amounts reallocated from repealed tax provisions to increase the renter's credit, and corresponding technical changes made.
Public safety; various provisions modified relating to driver's license revocations, ignition interlock participation length, treatment or rehabilitation program, criminal penalties for participants who operate a vehicle not equipped with interlock device, criminal vehicular homicide offenders, judicial review of an extension, impounded and reissued license plate process, temporary driver's licenses, and criminal penalties; and money appropriated.
Driver's license revocations related to certain offenses length extension authorization; ignition interlock length of time participation modification; ignition interlock program participants completion of a treatment or rehabilitation program before reinstatement of full driving privileges requirement
Payment rates established for certain substance use disorder treatment services, and vendor eligibility recodified for payments from the behavioral health fund.