Bill > S0036

This bill addresses several key areas of human services in Vermont, focusing on substance use disorder treatment, services for incapacitated individuals, and Human Services Board proceedings. The bill requires the Agency of Human Services to provide Medicaid coverage for both high-intensity and low-intensity residential treatment for individuals with substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health conditions, ensuring that the entire prescribed treatment length is covered based on current best practices. The legislation also mandates a review of the Medicaid payment model for residential substance use disorder treatment, with a report due by December 1, 2025, aimed at aligning payment with clinical needs and ensuring coordinated care transitions. Additionally, the bill repeals previous restrictions on incarceration of incapacitated persons and requires the Departments of Health and Mental Health to prioritize expanding services for incapacitated individuals in Chittenden County, with a presentation to legislative committees by February 15, 2026. The bill also calls for comprehensive reports on Human Services Board proceedings, including recommendations for improving attorney training, appeals processes, data collection, and appellant accessibility, with reports due by December 15, 2025. These provisions aim to enhance service delivery, treatment options, and administrative processes within Vermont's human services system, with the entire act set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/S.36