In a historic move, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation on Tuesday that ensures insurance companies cover mental health services and substance abuse disorder treatments at the same level as physical health services. The bipartisan bill, Senate Bill 27, requires insurers to provide equal coverage for mental health and substance use disorder treatments, closing loopholes that have previously allowed providers to avoid covering these essential services.
During her 2022 State of the State address, Whitmer proposed policies to expand mental health access in Michigan, including the equal coverage of mental health and substance use disorders. Senate Bill 27 was sponsored by State Senator Sarah Anthony and had broad support from both Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate. Representative Mike Harris, who supported the policy, highlighted the importance of mental health care in achieving overall wellness.
The new law guarantees that health insurance coverage includes mental health care, allowing Michiganders to access critical services and treatments. Marianne Huff, president and CEO of the Mental Health Association of Michigan, noted that the bill aligns with the Federal Mental Health Parity and Addictions Act of 2008, recognizing the interconnected nature of the brain, mind, and body as a unified system. This legislation marks a significant step towards ensuring holistic care for Michiganders’ overall well-being.
Whitmer emphasized the importance of access to both mental and physical healthcare for all Michigan residents in a statement. “Today’s bill is an important milestone in our ongoing efforts to improve access to healthcare for all Michiganders,” she said. “By providing equal coverage for mental health and substance use disorder treatments, we are taking an important step towards ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need.”
Senate Bill 27 was widely supported by advocacy groups and healthcare providers alike. The Mental Health America of Michigan praised the bill’s passage as a “win” for those seeking equal access to mental healthcare.
In conclusion, Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s signing of Senate Bill 27 represents a significant victory for mental healthcare advocates in Michigan. The new law ensures that insurance companies cover mental health services at parity with physical health services, bringing us one step closer to ensuring holistic care for all Michiganders’ overall well-being.
