An Act Concerning Mental Health And Substance Use Parity, Compliance And Transparency.
Impact
The proposed bill eliminates certain confidentiality provisions regarding the identification of health carriers in nonquantitative treatment limitations filings, thereby fostering greater accountability and oversight. Establishing a parity advancement account within the General Fund underscores the state’s commitment to support initiatives aimed at ensuring compliance and boosting consumer education regarding mental health and substance use disorders. This account is designed to provide resources for enforcement actions against health carriers that fail to comply with parity laws.
Summary
House Bill 06145, titled 'An Act Concerning Mental Health And Substance Use Parity, Compliance And Transparency', aims to amend existing statutes concerning the compliance and transparency of mental health and substance use disorder benefits provided by health carriers. The primary objectives of the bill are to require annual certifications from health carriers to ensure adherence to both state and federal parity laws and to enhance transparency regarding treatment limitations. This bill specifically targets improvements in the way mental health and substance use disorders are managed under insurance policies.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support for its efforts to improve mental health services and compliance with law, there may be concerns regarding potential pushback from insurance companies who could see increased regulatory burdens. Critics may argue that forcing health carriers to disclose more information could lead to apprehension in offering mental health benefits due to perceived risks of litigation or penalties. The balance between protecting consumer interests and accommodating the operational realities of health insurance providers is likely to be a focal point of discussion as the bill moves through the legislative process.
An Act Promoting Access To Affordable Prescription Drugs, Health Care Coverage, Transparency In Health Care Costs, Home And Community-based Support For Vulnerable Persons And Rights Regarding Gender Identity And Expression.