NH
New Hampshire Senate Bill SB123
New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session
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New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session

New Hampshire Senate Bill SB123

Introduced
1/22/25  
Refer
1/22/25  
Report Pass
2/25/25  
Refer
3/12/25  
Refer
3/20/25  
Report DNP
10/29/25  

Caption

Requiring coverage of ear acupuncture as a treatment for substance misuse under the state Medicaid plan.

Impact

SB123 is anticipated to have a significant fiscal impact on the state budget. It is estimated that the state will incur expenditures between $1 million and $5 million annually for this new treatment coverage, which will be funded partially by federal funds. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Department of Health and Human Services amend the Medicaid plan to implement this coverage by January 1, 2026. By enabling ear acupuncture as a reimbursable service, the state is not only providing new options for patients but also investing in addressing substance misuse comprehensively.

Summary

Senate Bill 123 (SB123) aims to require coverage for ear acupuncture as a treatment for substance misuse under the state's Medicaid plan. The bill outlines that medical assistance under the state Medicaid plan shall include this form of acupuncture, which can be administered during detoxification and throughout the treatment of opioid addiction and other types of substance misuse. This legislative action is expected to provide alternative therapeutic options for individuals struggling with addiction, aligning with a broader trend of integrating complementary treatments into traditional healthcare settings.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, there may be points of contention surrounding SB123. Concerns could arise regarding the cost implications and the efficacy of acupuncture as a treatment modality for substance misuse. Legislators may debate whether the funds allocated for this coverage could be better utilized for other essential services or treatments that have established effectiveness. Questions may also be raised about the adequacy of training for acupuncturists within the Medicaid system and whether the introduction of this treatment aligns with best practices for addiction treatment.

Companion Bills

NH SB123

Carry Over Requiring coverage of ear acupuncture as a treatment for substance misuse under the state Medicaid plan.

Previously Filed As

NH SB123

Requiring coverage of ear acupuncture as a treatment for substance misuse under the state Medicaid plan.

NH HB94

Relative to coverage of circumcision under the state Medicaid plan.

NH SB137

Relative to hospital stays covered under the state Medicaid plan.

NH HB751

Requiring licensure of outpatient substance use disorder treatment facilities and relative to complaint investigation of treatment facilities by the department of health and human services office of the ombudsman and making an appropriation therefor.

NH HB73

Relative to harm reduction, substance misuse, and the governor's commission on alcohol and drug abuse prevention, treatment, and recovery.

NH HB552

Relative to coverage of children under the state retiree insurance plan.

NH SB193

Requiring the head of each state agency to submit a strategic plan for program activities.

NH SB121

Requiring notice to the insurance department of the discontinuance of certain types of insurance, including Medicare Advantage Plans.

NH SB47

Requiring certain health insurance policies of a birth mother to provide coverage for a newly born child from the moment of birth.

NH HB566

Requiring permit applications for new landfills to contain a detailed plan for leachate management.

Similar Bills

NJ SCR81

Requests President and Congress take action to permit federal Medicaid funding for certain substance use disorder programs.

NH SB123

Requiring coverage of ear acupuncture as a treatment for substance misuse under the state Medicaid plan.

NJ S777

Increases Medicaid reimbursement for in-person partial care and intensive outpatient behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment services, and associated transportation services, for adults.

AR HB1559

To Require The Department Of Human Services To Seek A Waiver To The Arkansas Medicaid Program For Coverage For Inpatient Treatment Services For Substance Use Disorders.

NJ A1796

Increases Medicaid reimbursement for in-person partial care and intensive outpatient behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment services, and associated transportation services, for adults.

NJ S2492

Increases access to substance use disorder treatment; Requires Medicaid coverage for substance use disorder services provided by community-based organizations.

NJ A626

Increases access to substance use disorder treatment; Requires Medicaid coverage for substance use disorder services provided by community-based organizations.

NJ S560

Establishes pilot program to refer certain emergency department patients for development of coordinated behavioral health care treatment and support services plan.