WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 772

Behavioral Health Rate Methodology Modernization - Workgroup Establishment and Study

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tiffany Alston and 18 co-sponsors

Maryland establishes workgroup to modernize behavioral health service reimbursement rates and develop recommendations for improved provider payment methodology.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 219
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 772

Legislative bill overview

HB 772 establishes a workgroup tasked with modernizing the rate methodology used to reimburse behavioral health services in Maryland. The bill directs this workgroup to examine current payment structures and develop recommendations for updating how providers are compensated for mental health and substance use disorder treatment services. The workgroup's findings would inform future policy changes to the state's behavioral health payment systems.

Why is this important

Behavioral health services—including mental health treatment and addiction services—are critical to public health, yet provider reimbursement rates often fail to keep pace with actual costs of care, leading to provider shortages and reduced access. Modernizing rate methodology could improve provider sustainability, increase service availability, and potentially improve quality of care for Marylanders struggling with mental health and substance use disorders. This is particularly urgent as behavioral health crises have intensified nationally and in Maryland.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Modernized rates may require increased state funding or shifts in budget allocation, creating fiscal concerns during tight budget cycles
  • Provider selection and workgroup composition: Questions about who sits on the workgroup and whether all relevant stakeholders (providers, insurers, patient advocates, fiscal conservatives) are adequately represented
  • Implementation timeline and binding authority: Unclear whether workgroup recommendations will be binding on state agencies or merely advisory, affecting the likelihood of actual systemic change

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

Sign in to ask a question.