AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 33 and Title 71, relative to expanding medicaid to provide mental health services.
Impact
The implementation of SB2733 would significantly impact how mental health services are delivered in Tennessee by potentially increasing access to Medicaid coverage for individuals needing such services. By allowing the governor to expand Medicaid eligibility based on certain demographic factors, the bill could lead to enhanced support for mental health initiatives, which is especially crucial in a time when mental health concerns are on the rise across various populations. It aims to address gaps in mental health service provision by leveraging state assistance under federal provisions.
Summary
Senate Bill 2733, introduced by Senator Akbari, aims to amend Tennessee Code Annotated in Titles 4, 33, and 71 to facilitate the expansion of Medicaid specifically to provide mental health services. The bill seeks to create provisions that empower the governor to negotiate expansions of Medicaid eligibility based solely on mental health prevention and treatment. This aligns with the federal guidelines provided under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, which stipulates that states can exercise discretion in expanding Medicaid programs.
Contention
Discussions surrounding SB2733 may have raised concerns over the broader implications of Medicaid expansion. Supporters of the bill argue that increasing access to mental health services is essential for public welfare, while opponents may question the fiscal responsibility of expanding Medicaid without comprehensive funding strategies. Additionally, there may be concerns about the potential for increased dependency on state-sponsored health services and the long-term sustainability of such expansions in the state budget. Ensuring proper oversight and accountability in the expansion process would likely be a point of debate among legislators.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to expanding medicaid to provide gun violence prevention services.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to expanding medicaid to provide gun violence prevention services.