Provides coverage for biologically-based mental illness under the Healthy New York program

1 Co-sponsor

• David Koon

BILL NUMBER:A8751

Title of bill

An act to amend the insurance law, in relation to providing coverage for biologically-based mental illness under the Healthy New York program

Purpose

To provide insurance coverage for biologically-based mental illness under the Healthy New York Program.

SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:Paragraphs 13 and 14 of subsection (d) of Section 4326 of the Insurance Law, as added by Chapter 1 of the Laws of 1999, are amended and a new paragraph 15 is added to provide that psychiatric or psychological services or diagnosis or treatment of mental, nervous or emotional disorders or ailments and biologically-based mental illness are covered under the Healthy New York Program.

Justification

Chapter 748 of the Laws of 2006 (Timothy's Law) requires insurance coverage for inpatient and outpatient mental health services. To be entitled to the mental health benefits provided by Timothy's law, insurance coverage must be provided by group health insurance or a school blanket health insurance policy. Those enrolled in the Healthy New York program are not afforded the same benefits as provided by Timothy's Law. This legislation would extend similar coverage to those enrolled in the Healthy New York Program.

LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:2009: New Legislation

Fiscal implications

To be determined.

EFFECTIVE DATE:This act shall take effect immediately.