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Bill

SB 497

Eliminates a requirement concerning rates of reimbursement under Medicaid for applied behavioral analysis services. (BDR 38-1238)

2025 Regular Session

Nevada removes Medicaid rate requirements for applied behavioral analysis services, giving the state budget flexibility but creating reimbursement uncertainty for autism therapy providers.

Chapter 362.
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Bill Summary · SB 497

Legislative bill overview

SB 497 removes Nevada's requirement that Medicaid establish and maintain specific reimbursement rates for applied behavioral analysis (ABA) services. The bill eliminates regulatory constraints on how the state sets payment levels for this therapeutic service, which is commonly used to treat autism spectrum disorder and other behavioral conditions.

Why is this important

ABA services are a primary evidence-based treatment for autism, and reimbursement rates directly affect provider availability and patient access. By removing rate requirements, Nevada gains flexibility in Medicaid budgeting but potentially creates uncertainty for ABA providers about future compensation levels and may impact service availability depending on how rates are subsequently set.

Potential points of contention

  • Provider sustainability: Removing mandated rates could allow reimbursement cuts that make ABA services economically unviable for providers, potentially reducing available services
  • Patient access: Families relying on Medicaid-covered ABA therapy may face reduced access or longer wait times if providers exit the market due to inadequate payment
  • Regulatory clarity: Eliminating specific rate requirements removes predictability; providers and patients won't know what reimbursement levels will be without separate administrative action

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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