SPRINGFIELD – To enhance existing protections for Illinois residents in need of health and behavioral health care, State Senator Laura Fine and State Representative Lindsey LaPointe are sponsoring a measure to expand mental health care coverage, strengthen consumer protections and increase accountability in the health insurance industry. 

“As we work to provide Illinoisans with a health care system that makes it possible for all to access the services they need, we must address lingering barriers for both patients and physicians,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “This legislation is about putting people first and ensuring patients and physicians have the power to make their own medical decisions – not insurance companies.”

Last year, the Healthcare Protection Act was signed into law, making health care more accessible and affordable for Illinoisans. The law banned step therapy requirements, prohibited prior authorization for inpatient mental health care at hospitals, banned junk insurance plans, and ended unchecked rate increases for large group insurance companies.

Building on this effort, HB 3707/SB 1603 extends the prior authorization ban on inpatient mental health care to outpatient services - critical for prevention - covered by both state-regulated commercial insurance plans and Medicaid. The legislation would prevent insurance companies from using premiums – the amount paid each month for a health care plan – for administrative costs and corporate bonuses. Additionally, regulated commercial insurers would be required to reimburse individuals for travel costs associated with getting to behavioral health appointments when this distance traveled exceeds network adequacy requirements. 

“We must ensure residents can use their health insurance to access seamless and timely behavioral health support - from regular therapy to residential treatment, “ said LaPointe (D- Chicago). “Eliminating outpatient prior authorization requirements for both state based commercial insurance and Medicaid is a huge step for prevention and access.”

“By including these necessary protections, we can give patients the assurance of receiving equitable medical insurance, and physicians who are limited in the care they can provide from insurance companies, a return of authority in their decision-making,” said Fine. “I look forward to passing legislation that continues to enhance the foundation of Illinois health care.”

HB 3707/SB 1603 awaits committee assignment.