Bill > H546

This bill enacts several modifications to North Carolina's Medicaid program across multiple areas. First, it directs the Department of Health and Human Services to develop a team-based care coordination service focusing on substance use disorders, including screening, prescription medications, recovery support, and case management, with a requirement to submit a detailed report by October 1, 2025. The bill also mandates continuing Medicaid benefits suspension (rather than termination) for incarcerated individuals, as required by federal law. Additionally, the legislation expands the Healthcare Access and Stabilization Program (HASP) to include freestanding psychiatric hospitals, allowing them to receive increased reimbursements through a new assessment mechanism. The bill instructs the department to explore Medicaid coverage for personal care services for adult care home residents with incomes up to 180-200% of the federal poverty level, contingent on CMS approval and cost neutrality. It also includes provisions for potential work requirements if authorized by federal regulators and modifies telehealth provider eligibility rules to allow providers operating exclusively through telehealth to enroll in Medicaid without maintaining a physical presence in the state. The bill further adjusts the timeline for implementing a statewide Children and Families Specialty Plan and continues Medicaid coverage for pregnant women for twelve months postpartum.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H546