Senate Bill No. 222, introduced by Senator Pressly, aims to enhance Medicaid behavioral health services in Louisiana by enacting a new chapter in the Louisiana Revised Statutes. This legislation addresses various administrative requirements to improve access to behavioral health services, including the elimination of unnecessary barriers and alignment with federal standards. Key provisions include prohibiting the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) and managed care entities from requiring pre-employment reference letters and CPR or first aid certification for behavioral health staff, except in specific settings mandated by law. Additionally, the bill allows for the supervision of provisionally licensed staff to satisfy program requirements and mandates that documentation for services align with federal guidance.

The bill also stipulates that the requirement for a nurse on staff for medication administration can be met by having a licensed physician, psychiatrist, or physician assistant present. Furthermore, it permits physician assistants with relevant experience to serve as medical directors for Medicaid behavioral health providers. A significant aspect of the bill is the requirement for LDH to submit a request to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services by July 1, 2026, to authorize reimbursement for psychosocial rehabilitation services delivered via telehealth. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated time for gubernatorial action.