Medicaid Bump Act
Medicaid Bump Act
Plain Language Summary
# Medicaid Bump Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Medicaid Bump Act would increase federal funding for states' behavioral health services—such as mental health and substance abuse treatment. Specifically, it would boost the federal government's contribution (called the FMAP) for behavioral health expenses that have grown beyond March 2019 levels. The bill requires states to use this extra money to expand or improve existing mental health and addiction treatment programs rather than replace current state spending. **Who It Affects** This bill would primarily affect states, which would receive increased federal reimbursement for behavioral health services, and patients who use mental health and substance abuse treatment programs.
The federal government would bear a higher share of these costs, while states would be required to maintain their own funding levels. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee (S 2410) and has not been passed. It was introduced by Senator Tina Smith (D-Minnesota) in the 119th Congress.
CRS Official Summary
Medicaid Bump Act This bill increases the Medicaid federal matching rate, also known as the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP), for behavioral health expenses that exceed prior levels (i.e., as of March 31, 2019). The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services must specify which services are eligible for the increased FMAP. States must use funds to supplement state funding for programs in effect as of April 1, 2021, and to increase the capacity, efficiency, and quality of services.
Latest Action
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.