Repealing the IMD Exclusion Act

HR 10266, the Repealing the IMD Exclusion Act, removes an age restriction that previously barred Medicaid coverage for mental health services in institutions for mental diseases (IMDs) for people under 65. The bill amends the Social Security Act to allow Medicaid reimbursement for IMD care for all age groups, directly expanding access for younger adults with mental health conditions requiring institutional treatment. Key provisions include updating definitions to require IMDs to meet evidence-based standards for mental health and substance use disorder care, approved by federal authorities. The changes would take effect 180 days after enactment, applying to all state Medicaid programs.