Relating to the certification of peer specialists and peer specialist supervisors for purposes of Medicaid mental health and substance use services.

HB 3599 establishes new certification rules for peer specialists and peer specialist supervisors providing Medicaid-funded mental health and substance use services in Texas. It denies initial or renewal certification for specific periods based on criminal convictions: three years for felony drug/alcohol offenses or other felonies, and two years for Class B misdemeanor drug/alcohol offenses. The bill also requires longer denial periods (beyond the standard timelines) if an applicant has been convicted of offenses involving harm to people, children, or animals. These changes directly affect individuals seeking Medicaid certification in peer support roles, with the rules taking effect September 1, 2025.