This bill amends and reenacts R.S. 17:173(A) and enacts new subsections R.S. 17:173(B)(7) and (8) and (D) to enhance behavioral health services for public school students in Louisiana. It mandates that public school governing authorities cannot prohibit behavioral health providers from delivering medically necessary services, as authorized by independent third-party payors like Medicaid and commercial insurance, during school hours if requested by a student's parent or legal guardian. The bill also requires each governing authority to adopt a policy that facilitates these services without imposing onerous requirements that could delay or obstruct access to care. Additionally, it specifies that behavioral health evaluations and treatment plans must be recognized and not superseded by those provided by independent providers chosen by parents.

The bill introduces definitions for "independent third-party payor" and "medically necessary services," outlining the criteria for what constitutes medically necessary care. It also establishes that the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education is responsible for adopting rules for implementing these provisions and creating a dispute resolution process for any issues arising from the services provided. The rulemaking process is to begin by September 1, 2024, ensuring that the necessary guidelines are in place to support the delivery of behavioral health services in schools.

Statutes affected:
HB872 Original: 17:173(A)
HB872 Engrossed: 17:173(A)
HB872 Reengrossed: 17:173(A)
HB872 Enrolled: 17:173(A)
HB872 Act 745: 17:173(A)