The bill HR 8205, introduced by Representative Stephen M. Casey on February 27, seeks to amend the Medicaid Section 1115 demonstration waiver requests and renewals in Rhode Island. This amendment is part of the Rhode Island Medicaid Reform Act of 2008 and aims to create a more cost-effective and sustainable system of care for behaviorally complex patients. The bill emphasizes the need for legislative approval to allow the Secretary of the Executive Office of Health and Human Services to pursue necessary waiver amendments and changes to state regulations.

Specifically, the bill proposes updates to the behavioral health per-diem add-on program for patients requiring nursing home-level care who face complex needs that hinder their placement in traditional nursing homes. It outlines criteria for these patients, including those with a history of disruptive behaviors and those approved for specialized services through the BHDDH Level II PASRR determination process. The bill concludes by directing the Secretary of State to transmit certified copies to relevant state officials, including the Governor and the Rhode Island Department of Health.