SPRINGFIELD – Illinois eliminated unnecessary barriers to health care by banning prior authorization for outpatient mental health services on Jan. 1, thanks to State Senator Laura Fine.

“Like physical health care, mental health care is a critical component to overall well-being and it is time we ensure everyone has access to the treatment they need,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “This new law breaks down unnecessary barriers to mental health care services by making it more affordable and accessible for all Illinoisans.”

The Healthcare Protection Act, signed into law in July 2024, made 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.

Fine’s new law expands the prior authorization ban to include mental health care for outpatient services and partial mental health treatment hospitalizations covered by state-regulated insurance, private insurance plans and Medicaid. The new law also prevents insurance premium dollars from being used on CEO bonuses. Additionally, insurers are required to reimburse individuals for travel costs associated with attending behavioral health appointments when the distance traveled exceeds the network adequacy requirements.

“By preventing premium dollars from going towards CEO bonuses, this law ensures insurance companies keep patient care front and center,” said Fine. “It reinforces that premiums should be used to deliver care, not to pad executive paychecks.”

“This law allows patients to receive treatment in a timely manner and not be burdened by unexpected out-of-pocket fees,” said Fine. “This is about putting patients first and giving them the ability to make their own medical decisions – not insurance companies.”

House Bill 3019 took effect Jan. 1.