establishing the adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) prevention and treatment program and making an appropriation to the department of health and human services for this purpose.

SB 238 establishes a new program to prevent and treat adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) for children aged birth to 6 who face trauma or mental health challenges beyond standard childcare or education. It requires the Department of Health and Human Services to increase Medicaid reimbursement for early childhood mental health care, mandate a statewide provider credential for this specialty, and fund training scholarships for professionals. The bill appropriates $150,000 for fiscal year 2026 and $150,000 for fiscal year 2027 to support these services, including expanding child-parent psychotherapy (CPP) workforce capacity. This program directly affects young children with ACEs, their families, and healthcare providers specializing in early childhood mental health. The law takes effect July 1, 2025.