HI SCR85

Director of Health is requested to convene a mental health and substance abuse parity working group with co-chairs from the Department of Health and Attorney General's office by July 1, 2019.

Working group composition includes 15 members: representatives from state agencies (Insurance Commissioner, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division, Adult Mental Health Division), legislature, Governor, advocacy organizations (Coalition for a Drug-Free Hawaii, Mental Health America of Hawaii, Legal Aid Society), health plans, and licensed medical professionals (physicians, psychologists, clinical social workers).

Working group is requested to examine federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 compliance, national healthcare reform provisions affecting behavioral health, state implementation roles, and gaps in current state law.

Working group must review 11 policy elements including coverage options, financial and durational limits, managed care provisions, network adequacy, prescription medications, and external review procedures.

Working group must submit findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2020 Regular Session and is dissolved on June 30, 2020.