The Behavioral Health Redesign (BHR) project is now postponed until July 1, 2027. The Appropriations Act 2024-2026 gives the Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) the authority to modify specific Medicaid behavioral health services; those services are listed in the Act. One additional requirement is that redesign be cost neutral.  In 2024 the cost of behavioral health services need fiscal control. Will the proposed policies achieve fiscal control?

Community services boards (CSBs) serve all individuals, regardless of the ability to pay. Medicaid is a cornerstone for the CSBs' budgets and services. The Fairfax-Falls Church CSB's comments posted on this Town Hall provide specific examples of how the proposed BHR policies will have a negative impact on Virginians accessing critical behavioral health services. The proposed changes are enormous and complex. Will individuals and families benefit from the statewide, systemic changes proposed?

This comment proposes that legislators and the administration in collaboration with community stakeholders consider a pause to assess the feasibility of moving forward with BHR in 2027. There is always time to change direction to be better positioned for 2027 and beyond. Thank you.