Bill > HB1721

This bill amends the Human Services Code to provide medical assistance coverage for peer recovery support services, which are non-clinical support services provided by trained individuals with personal experience in mental health or substance use disorders. The bill mandates that these services be reimbursable under medical assistance programs without requiring additional diagnoses or pre-authorization, and can be delivered in-person, via video, telephone, or virtually. Peer recovery support services must be supervised by a licensed mental health practitioner and can support individuals with mild to severe mental health or substance use disorders, as well as their family members. The bill requires the Department of Health and the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs to create regulations that ensure continued care, provide reasonable compliance timelines for existing providers, and establish a certification process for peer recovery support services providers. The certification will involve specific requirements, such as having a nonprofit board with majority representation from individuals with lived experience, employing peer support specialists and supervisors, and supporting various recovery pathways. The bill defines key terms like "peer recovery support services," "peer recovery support specialist," and "substance use disorder," and specifies that these services aim to support individuals' recovery through direct engagement. The legislation will take effect 90 days after its enactment.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1721