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Bill

S 3008

Requires health insurance and Medicaid coverage for screening, prevention, and treatment services of behavioral health issues affecting children.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Renee Burgess and 5 co-sponsors

Bill mandated health insurance and Medicaid coverage for children's behavioral health screening, prevention, and treatment but was withdrawn after similar provisions were enacted separately.

Withdrawn Because Approved P.L.2025, c.369.
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Bill Summary · S 3008

Legislative bill overview

S 3008 would have mandated comprehensive health insurance and Medicaid coverage for behavioral health screening, prevention, and treatment services for children in New Jersey. The bill was withdrawn on January 13, 2026, because its provisions were already incorporated into and approved as P.L.2025, c.369, making separate passage unnecessary.

Why is this important

Behavioral health issues in children—including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders—often go undiagnosed and untreated due to coverage gaps. Mandating insurance coverage removes financial barriers to early intervention, which can significantly improve long-term outcomes in academic performance, social functioning, and adult mental health.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance cost increases: Expanded coverage mandates typically increase premiums for insurers and employers, raising healthcare costs system-wide
  • Definition of "behavioral health services": Determining which screening tools, providers, and treatments qualify for coverage could spark disputes between insurers, providers, and regulators
  • Medicaid funding burden: Expanding Medicaid coverage requirements places additional fiscal pressure on state budgets, which may affect other program funding

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

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