This legislation, titled the "Ensuring Excellence in Mental Health Act," seeks to significantly enhance the availability and quality of Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) services across the United States. It achieves this by amending the Social Security Act to adjust coverage and payment mechanisms for these vital services under both the Medicaid and Medicare programs, alongside establishing new grant opportunities and liability protections. Under Medicaid, the bill mandates the establishment of a prospective payment system (PPS) for CCBHC services, effective January 1, 2026. States will determine payment based on daily or monthly visits, with options for special populations, outlier payments, or distinct rates for crisis services. The initial payment will be cost-based, with annual updates and periodic rebasing to ensure rates reflect actual costs, and states can also use alternative payment methodologies. Furthermore, the bill expands the scope of services covered under Medicaid's CCBHC demonstration program and the general Medicaid program, effective October 1, 2026. This expansion includes "additional CCBHC services," which may encompass primary health services, beyond the existing "required CCBHC services." This aims to promote integrated care and address a broader range of patient needs. For Medicare, the legislation introduces coverage for CCBHC services beginning January 1, 2027, and directs the Secretary to develop a prospective payment system (PPS) for these services. Medicare payments will cover 80 percent of the lesser of the actual charge or the PPS amount, with rates initially based on average costs and subsequently updated annually. Importantly, the Medicare Part B deductible will not apply to CCBHC services, improving access for beneficiaries. Beyond payment reforms, the bill establishes a new grant program for CCBHCs, authorizing $552.5 million annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2030 for operating grants. These grants support the provision of required services, help clinics meet certification criteria, and can be used for infrastructure, equipment, and staff training. The legislation also allocates funds for technical assistance ($8 million annually) to support CCBHCs and states, and for developing a data infrastructure ($51 million annually) to collect and analyze CCBHC data. Finally, the bill introduces a framework for CCBHC accreditation, allowing states to use accreditation as an option for Medicaid coordination and for the Secretary to approve accreditation bodies. It also extends Federal Tort Claims Act protection to clinicians working in certified community behavioral health clinics, providing crucial liability safeguards for healthcare professionals delivering these essential services.