Bill > SB7032

This bill enacts the "Temporary Youth Mental Health Services Program Act." It establishes a program within the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to facilitate access to mental health services, including substance use disorder services, for youth (defined as those 18 years old or younger, and those 21 years old or younger receiving special education services). The program will reimburse providers for up to three mental health sessions per youth client, either in-person or via telehealth. The department is required to develop a process for providers to apply for reimbursement, determine reimbursement rates, and implement a public awareness campaign about the program. The bill also requires the department to create or use an existing website or web-based application as a portal to facilitate the program, including mental health screenings and appointment scheduling.