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State Legislation: Bill Amendments · September 27, 2026 · Primary source

CA SB 874: new version, 09/27/26 - Chaptered

Score 76PRIMARYregulatoryState legislature

Summary

California SB 874 was chaptered on September 27, 2026, as Chapter 655, Statutes of 2026. The law requires the California Department of Health Care Services, by July 1, 2027, to ensure that individuals providing behavioral health treatment services under Medi-Cal undergo criminal background checks. It also requires the department to use existing stakeholder forums to collect feedback on BHT coverage and billing policy, including clinical guidelines, treatment plan requirements, center-based service standards, and supervision of unlicensed professionals. By January 1, 2029, the department must publish BHT utilization data, a synopsis of changes made from stakeholder input, and recommendations to align Medi-Cal reimbursement with federal Medicaid program integrity requirements.

What this may mean

BHT providers participating in Medi-Cal face a new criminal background check requirement for their service delivery staff, effective by July 1, 2027, under a mandate imposed on the California Department of Health Care Services. The department must also maintain and publish clear billing and coverage guidance for BHT services, reducing ambiguity for providers on documentation and billing compliance. By January 1, 2029, the department must publish utilization data and recommendations that will likely inform future coverage, billing, and reimbursement policy changes affecting Medi-Cal BHT providers.

Informational only. Not legal, medical, financial, or other professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional familiar with your specific facts before relying on any item.

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