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Committee re‑refers bill to let Medicaid cover comprehensive assessments in some court-ordered cases
Summary
House File 19 95 would require courts not to order individuals to pay for comprehensive behavioral‑health assessments when the assessment is eligible for Medicaid reimbursement; supporters said the change reduces barriers to treatment.
Representative Frederick presented House File 19 95 to the committee and said the bill replaces the term “SUD assessment” with “comprehensive assessment,” and directs Medicaid to cover assessments when eligible so that individuals are not ordered to pay out of pocket.
Selena Beasley of the Red Lake Chemical Health Program testified in support, saying Minnesota statute 1698.282 currently bars some people convicted of DWI from using Medicaid or behavioral health funds to pay for assessments; the bill would remove that barrier. Testimony described the financial burden—about $200 out of pocket—and included letters of support from county and provider programs.
Members asked whether the language change affects Medicaid eligibility; Representative Frederick said the change does not expand who is eligible for Medicaid, only directs payment to Medicaid where coverage already exists. The committee renewed a motion to re‑refer HF 19 95 to the Human Services Finance and Policy Committee for fiscal review; the motion carried by voice vote.
