TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES TO SEEK A WAIVER TO THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM FOR COVERAGE FOR INPATIENT TREATMENT SERVICES FOR SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS.

House Bill 1559 requires the Arkansas Department of Human Services to apply for a federal waiver to expand the Arkansas Medicaid Program. If approved, this waiver would allow Medicaid to cover inpatient treatment services for substance use disorders, including care in facilities currently excluded under federal rules. The bill aims to improve access to treatment for Arkansans with substance use disorders, enhance care coordination, and expand medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder. DHS must consult with stakeholders during the application process and provide annual reports on the waiver's progress.