Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF273

Introduced
2/13/23  
Refer
5/4/23  
Introduced
2/13/23  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the term brain health.(Formerly HSB 76.)

Impact

In terms of legislative impact, HF273 will modify references and definitions in Iowa's mental health statutes, particularly in Chapter 225C, where it will include brain illnesses alongside other recognized disabilities. This recognition reflects an evolving understanding of mental health issues and emphasizes the importance of addressing brain health as a critical component of overall wellness. The bill also delineates that the introduction of 'brain health' terminology doesn't replace existing terms related to mental health in contexts such as medical billing or state licensure, thus maintaining a balance between innovation and existing regulatory frameworks.

Summary

House File 273 aims to amend the existing laws regarding mental health by formally recognizing the term 'brain health' in Iowa's mental health and disability services code. The bill proposes that 'brain health' and 'brain illness' can be used synonymously with 'mental health', 'mental illness', and 'behavioral health'. This change seeks to reduce the stigma associated with these conditions and promote greater understanding and treatment of brain health issues among Iowans. By establishing a clearer terminology, the legislation is intended to encourage early diagnosis and more preventative treatments for individuals experiencing brain health challenges.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding HF273 may arise regarding its practical implementation and the implications of introducing new terminology into an already complex system of mental health services. Critics might argue that while the intentions behind the bill are positive, they could complicate existing frameworks and lead to confusion among providers and patients alike. Furthermore, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of resources allocated toward supporting the newly acknowledged brain health services compared to traditional mental health avenues, potentially diluting efforts in both areas.

Companion Bills

IA HSB76

Related A bill for an act relating to the term brain health.(See HF 273.)

IA SSB1078

Related A bill for an act relating to the term brain health.(See SF 210.)

IA SF210

Similar To A bill for an act relating to the term brain health.(Formerly SSB 1078.)

Previously Filed As

IA SF210

A bill for an act relating to the term brain health.(Formerly SSB 1078.)

IA SSB1078

A bill for an act relating to the term brain health.(See SF 210.)

IA HF692

A bill for an act relating to the staffing of brain health professionals in primary and secondary schools and making appropriations.

IA HF2509

A bill for an act relating to the transition of behavioral health services from a mental health and disability services system to a behavioral health service system, and the transfer of disability services to the division of aging and disability services of the department of health and human services, making appropriations, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly HSB 653; See HF 2673.)

IA HF566

A bill for an act relating to bodies of the state governmental structure under the purview of the department of health and human services. (Formerly HF 386.)

IA HF471

A bill for an act relating to mental health and disability services provided by the state and judicial procedures relating to child in need of assistance proceedings, adoptions, and the confinement of persons found incompetent to stand trial. (Formerly HSB 176.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.

IA SF2354

A bill for an act relating to the transition of behavioral health services from a mental health and disability services system to a behavioral health service system, and the transfer of disability services to the division of aging and disability services of the department of health and human services, making appropriations, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly SSB 3146; See SF 2420.)

IA HF2673

A bill for an act related to state behavioral health, disability, and addictive disorder services and related programs, including the transition of behavioral health services from a mental health and disability services system to a behavioral health service system, the transfer of disability services to the division of aging and disability services of the department of health and human services, the elimination of the commission on aging, the elimination of special intellectual disability units at state mental health institutes, making appropriations, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HF 2509, HSB 653.) Effective date: 05/15/2024, 07/01/2024, 07/01/2025.

IA SSB3146

A bill for an act relating to the transition of behavioral health services from a mental health and disability services system to a behavioral health service system, and the transfer of disability services to the division of aging and disability services of the department of health and human services, making appropriations, and including effective date provisions.(See SF 2354, SF 2420.)

IA HSB653

A bill for an act relating to the transition of behavioral health services from a mental health and disability services system to a behavioral health service system, and the transfer of disability services to the division of aging and disability services of the department of health and human services, making appropriations, and including effective date provisions.(See HF 2509, HF 2673.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.