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 Additionally, it specifies that behavioral health evaluations and treatment plans must be recognized and not superseded by those provided by independent providers chosen by parents.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 creating rules for implementing these provisions and for a dispute resolution process related to the services provided. The bill emphasizes the importance of collaboration between school administrators and service providers to ensure that behavioral health services are effectively integrated into the school environment while considering the educational needs and schedules of students.

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)