This amendment provides $2.6 million from the general fund and $4.5 million from federal Medicaid matching funds to increase the Medicaid rates for mental health practitioners who bill for psychiatric services. These rates are lower than Medicare and commercial rates, resulting in fewer providers accepting Medicaid patients in need of these services. It is the intent of the General Assembly that in the enrolling of this act, funding included in this item shall be allocated among appropriate items within the Department of Medical Assistance Services.