Rhode Island Senate Bill S1004

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/2/25
• Refer: 5/2/25

Caption

Requires the executive office of health and human services to apply to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for a state plan amendment for reimbursement for health services in a school.

Impact

The enactment of S1004 is expected to significantly modify the landscape of school-based health services in Rhode Island. By permitting schools to bill Medicaid directly for mental health services, the bill has the potential to bolster the funding of school-based health programs. Furthermore, it emphasizes the collaboration between various state departments to optimize federal funding for these services. This legislative move endeavors to provide better support for children's behavioral health needs, thereby improving their educational outcomes.

Summary

Senate Bill S1004 aims to enhance the accessibility of behavioral health services for children in educational settings by allowing local education agencies (LEAs) to act as providers for the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) program under Medicaid. This bill requires the executive office of health and human services to seek a state plan amendment from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services that would facilitate reimbursement for necessary behavioral health services delivered in schools. This initiative is designed to ensure that students who are enrolled in Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program can receive essential health services irrespective of their specific individualized education plans.

Contention

Despite its intended benefits, S1004 could face opposition regarding the practicality of its implementation, especially concerning the mandatory local match required from LEAs to maintain their participation in the EPSDT program. Critics may be concerned about the financial implications for schools, particularly smaller districts with limited resources, as they would need to ensure the availability of sufficient local funds to access federal reimbursements. Additionally, the bill's provisions may ignite debates about the adequacy of training and resources provided to school personnel to handle behavioral health services effectively.