Idaho faces another lawsuit over Medicaid mental health cut
Idaho is facing a second lawsuit attempting to block cuts to Medicaid mental health services for individuals with severe mental illness.Summary
Idaho is being sued by five patients over planned cuts to Medicaid services for those with severe mental illness, marking the second lawsuit challenging the changes. The plaintiffs seek class-action status to protect all Idahoans in the program, arguing the cuts—implemented by Magellan of Idaho due to budget concerns—will worsen mental health conditions and jeopardize public safety. The lawsuit alleges state officials “directed or authorized” the cuts, specifically targeting peer support services and Assertive Community Treatment, scheduled to begin December 1st. The suit highlights the positive impact of the program on patients like Ramon, who has shown significant improvement in managing paranoid schizophrenia and reconnecting with family since joining. Experts warn that ending the program, which serves 400-500 people, could lead to increased homelessness and a return to cycles of incarceration and hospitalization.
(Source：Idaho Capital Sun)