An Act Concerning Medicaid Reimbursement For Substance Abuse Coaches And Mental Health Counselors Under A Peer Support Treatment Model.
Summary
HB 7023 would require the Commissioner of Social Services to amend Connecticut’s Medicaid state plan to cover peer support services as part of care teams funded under the medical assistance program. The bill defines peer support services as recovery-focused behavioral health services provided by a certified peer support specialist, including individuals with lived experience recovering from mental illness or substance use disorder who are certified through the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.
The measure also directs Medicaid reimbursement to peer support specialists for these services beginning July 1, 2025. In addition, the Department of Social Services must report by August 1, 2026 on the number of peer support specialists reimbursed, the number of Medicaid enrollees served, and any available outcome data on treatment provided under this model.
Impact
The bill would expand Medicaid-covered behavioral health services in Connecticut by formally integrating peer support specialists into Medicaid care teams and authorizing reimbursement for their services. It would require a state plan amendment, which could affect Medicaid administration, provider participation, and service delivery for individuals receiving treatment for mental illness or substance use disorder. The reporting requirement would also create a new oversight obligation for the Department of Social Services and provide legislators with data on utilization and outcomes.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests the bill was generally viewed favorably in committee, passing the House committee with 16 yeas and 7 nays on a joint favorable substitute. The lack of transcript discussion limits insight into detailed debate, but the vote indicates meaningful support for expanding peer-based behavioral health services while also showing some opposition or reservations from a minority of members.
Contention
The main points of contention likely concern whether Medicaid should reimburse peer support specialists and how broadly peer support services should be integrated into care teams. Supporters appear to favor expanding access to recovery-oriented behavioral health and substance use supports, while opponents may be concerned about cost, program oversight, service effectiveness, or whether the model should be funded through Medicaid. The required outcome reporting suggests lawmakers also want evidence on whether the approach improves treatment results.