New waiver launches enhanced behavioral health services aiming for improved community access and outcomes.

House Finance heard detailed presentations on HB 138, a proposed 98¢ monthly surcharge to fund 988 and complementary crisis services; Department of Revenue said revenue was indeterminate but likely toward the high end of the sponsor’s $6–8M estimate; members pressed for clarity on spending guardrails, FCC compliance and proposed immunity protections.

Senator Scott Kawasaki’s SB 196 would add a 98¢ behavioral‑health services surcharge per phone line to fund 988 call operations, mobile crisis teams and stabilization centers. Supporters including mental‑health advocates and law enforcement urged stable funding; telecom providers and some residents warned the flat fee is regressive and cited alternative funding options.

Senators heard SB196, which would add a 98¢ monthly surcharge per phone line to create a behavioral health crisis services fund to support 988, mobile crisis teams and crisis stabilization centers; supporters said it would provide predictable funding, while committee members asked for revenue comparisons and implementation details.

Department of Health officials told a Senate committee they have completed a behavioral health rate methodology study, plan implementation this year, are pursuing a SAMHSA planning grant for certified community behavioral health clinics, and finalized subacute licensing regulations to expand crisis stabilization and residential services in Anchorage.

Alaska's SB 196 introduces a monthly surcharge for funding behavioral health crisis services.

Alaska's new law enforces equal treatment access for behavioral and physical health under Medicaid.

Alaska faces a growing behavioral health crisis without necessary insurance regulation changes.

Senate Bill 45 moves forward to mandate gradual improvements in Alaska's behavioral health system.

Public testimony supports SB45 to reduce documentation burdens for Alaska's behavioral health providers.

Miss Martin addresses counselor shortage and telehealth accessibility challenges in Alaska.

Legislators discuss accountability and funding for 17-year-old federal behavioral health compliance issues.