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 streamline access to behavioral health services, reduce unnecessary barriers, and align state regulations 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 meet program standards and mandates that documentation requirements align with federal guidance.

The bill also introduces flexibility in staffing requirements, allowing licensed physicians, psychiatrists, or physician assistants to fulfill nursing requirements for medication administration. Furthermore, it expands the eligibility for medical directors of Medicaid behavioral health providers to include physician assistants, alongside existing roles. Lastly, the legislation requires LDH to submit necessary requests to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services by July 1, 2026, to authorize reimbursement for psychosocial rehabilitation services delivered via telehealth, ensuring that the House and Senate health committees are informed of the submission and any responses from CMS. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the lapse of time for gubernatorial action.