hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Mandates Medicaid mental health telehealth for specific formerly incarcerated individuals.
Rep. Foushee and 8 co-sponsors introduced this bill.
Introduced in House committee, no vote yet.
This bill proposes to require state Medicaid programs to cover 12 mental health telehealth visits annually for individuals who are under home confinement through judicial process and were recently incarcerated. It was introduced by Mrs. Foushee and eight other representatives and is currently awaiting review in a House committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives.
Introduced Feb 12, 2026
The bill, H.R. 7535, was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 12, 2026. It has been referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce for review and consideration. For it to become law, it must pass through committee, be approved by the full House, then pass the Senate, and finally be signed by the President.
If this bill becomes law, individuals who have just left a public institution and are now under judicial home confinement would be able to receive up to 12 mental health therapy sessions per year via telehealth. State Medicaid programs would be required to cover these services, expanding mental health care access for this specific population. This change would mean more convenient and accessible mental health support for eligible individuals transitioning back into the community.
Supporters Say
Supporters argue it improves rehabilitation and reduces re-offending by addressing mental health needs.
Critics Say
Critics might raise concerns about program costs or the scope of eligibility criteria.
Advocates for the bill would likely highlight the high prevalence of mental health issues among individuals leaving incarceration and the benefits of providing consistent care to aid their reintegration and prevent future criminal activity. Opponents may express reservations about the financial implications for state Medicaid budgets or debate whether telehealth is the most effective method for this specific group, as well as the narrow definition of eligible individuals.