This bill outlines the intent of the Nebraska Legislature to allocate $1,500,000 for the fiscal year 2025-26 from the Hospital Quality Assurance and Access Assessment Fund to the Department of Health and Human Services. The funding is designated for the medical assistance program, specifically aimed at reimbursing mental health providers who do not operate within a hospital setting. These providers must offer services to Medicaid-eligible participants who also qualify for Medicare, particularly in cases where the Medicare reimbursement rates are lower than the current Medicaid rates for behavioral health services.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the Legislature's intent to maintain the Medicaid rates for mental health providers serving these dual-eligible participants receiving behavioral health services under Program 348, Medical Assistance. This initiative seeks to ensure that mental health providers are adequately compensated for their services, thereby supporting the overall mental health care system for vulnerable populations in Nebraska.