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SB 96

MEDICAID: Establishes Medicaid reimbursement rates for certain behavioral health services. (7/1/25) (EN +$1,830,352 GF EX See Note)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Dewith Carrier and 5 co-sponsors

Louisiana increases Medicaid reimbursement for behavioral health services by $1.83M to improve provider access and mental health service availability for low-income residents.

Signed by the Governor. Becomes Act No. 417.
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Bill Summary · SB 96

Legislative bill overview

SB 96 establishes new Medicaid reimbursement rates for behavioral health services in Louisiana, effective July 1, 2025. The bill allocates $1.83 million in general fund expenditures to support these rate adjustments. This measure was sponsored by a bipartisan group of legislators and has been signed into law.

Why is this important

Medicaid reimbursement rates directly affect provider willingness to serve patients and the accessibility of mental health and substance abuse services. Louisiana's behavioral health workforce has faced recruitment and retention challenges partly due to low reimbursement rates, so adjusting these rates can improve service availability for low-income residents relying on Medicaid. The $1.83 million investment represents a significant state commitment to expanding behavioral health capacity.

Potential points of contention

  • Adequacy of funding: Whether the $1.83 million increase sufficiently addresses provider needs or represents meaningful rate improvements across all behavioral health service categories
  • Provider eligibility and scope: Unclear which specific behavioral health services are covered and whether all provider types (community mental health centers, private practices, hospitals) benefit equally
  • Budget sustainability: Whether this represents ongoing state funding commitment or a one-time appropriation, affecting long-term program stability and provider planning

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

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