New Jersey Assembly Bill A1141

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Requires health insurance coverage for annual mental health screening.

Impact

The implementation of A1141 will significantly influence state laws governing health insurance plans in New Jersey. By mandating coverage for annual mental health screenings, the bill seeks to reduce the stigma associated with mental health conditions and enhance early detection and treatment of such issues. Of particular note is that the provisions will take effect 90 days after enactment, requiring immediate compliance from insurers, thus enhancing consumer protection in the realm of mental health care.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1141 requires health insurers in New Jersey to provide coverage for annual mental health screenings. It mandates that individual and group health insurance policies deliver coverage for mental health conditions and substance use disorders under the same terms as other medical conditions. This aligns with federal standards outlined in the Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008, ensuring that the limitations for mental health benefits cannot be more restrictive than those for physical health benefits. Therefore, this legislation aims to improve access to mental health services through increased insurance coverage.

Contention

During discussions around this bill, some lawmakers expressed concerns about the financial implications for insurers and whether the mandated coverage may lead to increased premiums. Conversely, advocates for mental health reform argue that such coverage is essential for public health and could ultimately save costs by reducing the need for emergency interventions down the road. The overarching contention revolves around finding a balance between protecting consumers and ensuring that insurance funds can sustain such initiatives without detrimental effects on service availability.