Expand the Behavioral Health Workforce Now Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Daines, Steve [R-MT]
- Committees
- Finance Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Dec 16, 2025
Bottom line
This bill directs HHS to provide states with non-binding strategies to use existing Medicaid and CHIP programs to strengthen the mental health and substance use disorder workforce, especially in underserved regions.
What it actually does
This bill mandates the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to issue non-mandatory guidance to states within 12 months of enactment. The guidance will outline strategies for states to leverage their Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) authorities to enhance the education, training, recruitment, and retention of mental health and substance use disorder (MHSUD) care providers. A particular focus is placed on improving the MHSUD workforce capacity in rural and underserved areas.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill directly addresses the critical shortage of mental health and substance use disorder care providers, particularly in rural and underserved communities, by empowering states with actionable strategies. They contend that providing non-mandatory guidance respects state autonomy while offering valuable tools to improve access to essential care and combat the ongoing behavioral health crises.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that merely issuing non-mandatory guidance is an insufficient response to a pressing national crisis, suggesting it lacks the necessary force to compel significant change. They may contend that without direct federal funding or mandatory requirements, states might not prioritize or have the resources to implement these strategies effectively, leading to minimal impact on the severe workforce shortages.
The bill is exceptionally short and clear, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its core purpose quickly.
Section 2
Guidance to States on Medicaid and CHIP Strategies for MHSUD Workforce
This section requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop and issue guidance to states within one year of the bill's enactment. This guidance will detail how states can utilize their Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) funds and authorities, including waivers, to improve the education, training, recruitment, and retention of mental health and substance use disorder care providers. The primary objective is to enhance the MHSUD workforce, particularly in rural and underserved areas where access to care is often limited.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision provides states with much-needed tools and flexibility to address critical MHSUD workforce shortages using existing federal programs. They emphasize that non-mandatory guidance allows states to tailor strategies to their unique needs while still benefiting from federal expertise and best practices.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that merely issuing guidance, even comprehensive guidance, is insufficient to tackle the systemic and financial challenges underlying the MHSUD workforce crisis. They may argue that without direct funding incentives or mandatory requirements, many states may not implement the strategies effectively, leading to limited real-world impact.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances federal oversight and state autonomy by providing guidance rather than mandates. This approach aims to encourage innovation and adaptation at the state level but risks inconsistent or insufficient implementation if states lack resources or political will.