DHS-GAMBLING DISORDERS

Amends the Crime Victims Compensation Act. Requires the Attorney General to, with the consent of an applicant, request and obtain supporting documentation required to verify a claim for compensation. Includes provisions regarding supporting documentation for applications and claims. Provides that to receive compensation under the Act, the appropriate law enforcement officials were notified within 180 days (rather than 72 hours or 7 days for specified offenses) of the perpetration of the crime allegedly causing the death or injury to the victim. Allows a mental health provider to seek reimbursement for an evaluation if the mental health provider is not currently providing treatment to the applicant, and will not seek reimbursement from the program for any additional treatment of the applicant. Provides that if a mental health provider who provides a certification form seeks reimbursement from the program for treatment of the applicant, or an applicant seeks reimbursement for payments made to the mental health provider for treatment, compensation for services provided by the mental health provider shall be limited to Medicare-approved rates. Prohibits a mental health provider from seeking reimbursement for services provided to an applicant if the applicant has not exhausted the benefits reasonably available under any governmental, medical, or health insurance program. Provides that if an applicant was receiving treatment from a mental health provider before the commission of the crime, and the mental health provider provides a certification form, the mental health provider may only seek reimbursement from the program for treatment that is in addition to the treatment the applicant was already receiving before the commission of the crime. Provides that furnishing an evaluation or furnishing another document as evidence of notification or cooperation may not be construed to waive any confidentiality or privilege that may exist between the victim or applicant and a third party. Provides that the Court shall issue a voucher for payment to the Comptroller of an emergency award after receiving notice of the decision to grant the emergency award, and if the Comptroller is not able to release the voucher for payment within 10 business days of receiving a voucher for payment from the Court, the Comptroller shall notify the Attorney General. Provides that if the amount of emergency compensation exceeds the actual amount the applicant incurs, the difference shall be repaid to the State. Provides that the Office of the Attorney General shall include a designated section in the application form for the applicant to request an emergency award. Makes other changes.

Status

Passed

Signed or otherwise enacted

Status date

Jul 10, 2026

125 days ago

Current chamber

Senate

Session

2025-2026 Regular Session