Bill > HB1716

This bill expands Medicaid recipients' options for mental health and counseling services by allowing them to select certain pre-licensed mental health professionals who are working towards full licensure. Specifically, the bill permits Medicaid recipients to choose licensed marriage and family therapist associates, licensed master social workers pursuing clinical social work licensure, and licensed professional counselor associates to provide healthcare services, provided these professionals are working under supervision towards full licensure. The bill mandates that these pre-licensed professionals will be reimbursed at 50% of the rate established for licensed psychiatrists or psychologists, with reimbursement limited to 3,000 hours or the number of clinical practice hours required for full licensure. This change aims to increase access to mental health services by allowing patients to work with professionals in training while ensuring they receive appropriate supervision and compensation. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and requires any necessary federal waivers to be obtained before implementation.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1716