AZ SB1451

Appropriates $60,000,000 from Arizona's general fund in fiscal year 2026-2027 to the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) for behavioral health provider rate increases.

Provides a 10% reimbursement rate increase for both inpatient and outpatient behavioral health services to Medicaid providers, added on top of any existing or previously negotiated rates.

Prohibits contracted Medicaid health plans from offsetting or absorbing the rate increase through existing negotiated rates; the full increase must be passed through to behavioral health providers.

Limits reimbursement rate increases to federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services upper payment limits.

Restricts appropriated funds to behavioral health provider reimbursement increases only, prohibiting use for administrative costs, other service categories, or other programmatic purposes.