Key Takeaways: Centralized Anti-Fraud Initiative. A new task force was created to coordinate enforcement across federal benefits programs. Upfront Controls and Oversight. There will be an increased focus on eligibility verification, pre-payment safeguards and data sharing. Consequences for Inadequate Controls. There is potential for federal funds to be withheld from states lacking adequate controls. Heightened Enforcement Risk. The DOJ will focus on False Claims Act enforcement which may drive increased qui tam activity. On March 16, 2026, President Trump issued an Executive Order (EO) establishing the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud (Task Force) across federal benefits programs. The Task Force is to lead government-wide efforts to strengthen oversight of programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, housing assistance and other federally funded benefits. The Task Force will be

Behavioral health is surging into 2026 with powerful growth, accelerating innovation and intensifying regulatory oversight. Investment activity remains strong, digital tools are expanding and new care models are scaling, even as enforcement agencies and payors heighten scrutiny. In this edition of our Top Issues in Behavioral Health 2026 newsletter, we unpack the legal and business trends shaping the year ahead and what they mean for providers, investors and industry leaders navigating growth in an increasingly regulated environment.