March 25, 2026
Mr. Barrasso (for himself, Mr. Coons, Mrs. Capito, Ms. Cortez Masto, and Ms. Hassan) introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance
To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to improve access to mental health services under the Medicare program.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
Section 1. Short title
This Act may be cited as the Mental Health Access and Provider Support Act of 2026
.
Sec. 2. Improving access to mental health services under the Medicare program
(a) In general
Section 1833(a)(1) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395l(a)(1)) is amended—
(1)
in subparagraph (F)(ii), by striking 75 percent of the amount determined for payment of a psychologist under clause (L)
and inserting 85 percent of the fee schedule amount provided under section 1848
;
(2)
in subparagraph (EE), by striking 1847A(i)(5)(B)
and inserting 1847A(i)(5)(B),
; and
(3)
in subparagraph (FF), by striking 75 percent of the amount determined for payment of a psychologist under subparagraph (L)
and inserting 85 percent of the fee schedule amount provided under section 1848
.
(b) Effective date
The amendments made by this section shall apply to items and services furnished on or after January 1, 2027.