Allows licensed clinical social worker to directly bill NJ FamilyCare for covered services provided to program beneficiaries.

A1796 would allow licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) to directly bill the NJ FamilyCare program for covered mental health services provided to program beneficiaries. To qualify, LCSWs must hold a valid license under New Jersey law, be approved as a provider by NJ FamilyCare, and offer services that are already covered under the program. The bill requires the state to seek federal approval for this change to maintain Medicaid funding. This policy update would streamline reimbursement for LCSWs who currently cannot bill NJ FamilyCare directly.