Bill · H.R. 5217· House(119-HR-5217)

Rural Behavioral Health Improvement Act of 2025

Age: 50 years

Hawaii

Introduced: 9/8/2025
Last activity: 9/8/2025 — Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Sponsored by: Jill Tokuda
Cosponsors: - 12 - 11

Health

Introduced
In Committee

What this bill would do

This bill, known as the ``Rural Behavioral Health Improvement Act of 2025'', aims to change the Social Security Act. Specifically, it seeks to amend title XVIII to remove certain limitations regarding the delivery of behavioral health services. These changes would affect how services are provided at rural health clinics under the Medicare program. The amendment targets specific language within section 1861(aa)(2) of the Social Security Act. This change is intended to take effect beginning January 1, 2027.

Yes· 3 of 9

Would people in rural areas be better off under this?+5
The bill specifically aims to improve the delivery of behavioral health services in rural health clinics.
Does this make mental health care easier to get?+5
The bill removes limitations on the delivery of behavioral health services at rural health clinics under Medicare.
Would people over 65 be better off under this?+4
The bill improves behavioral health service access for Medicare beneficiaries, who are predominantly seniors.