The bill passed 261-155 with significant opposition from Democrats, who argued the bill’s focus on two addictions is too narrow and doesn’t dedicate any funding to community-based services.
“Without that connection, states simply will not pursue these needed improvements,” said Rep. Frank Pallone, D-N.J.
The bill would offer Medicaid enrollees who struggle with opioid or cocaine addiction greater access to beds in certain inpatient treatment facilities. It also modifies a rule that restricts Medicaid coverage at facilities with more than 16 beds. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the bill would cost $1.12 billion.
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