H.B. 1324 Summary

• Requires all individual and group health insurance policies issued or renewed after December 31, 2023 to cover an annual mental health wellness examination of up to 60 minutes performed by a qualified mental health care provider.

• Mental health wellness examination coverage must be at least as extensive as physical examination coverage and comply with the federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act.

• Examinations are exempt from deductibles and copayments, and insurers must reimburse all costs to qualified providers.

• Defines "qualified mental health care provider" as physicians, physician assistants, psychologists, clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists, mental health counselors, substance abuse counselors, or advanced practice registered nurses with psychiatric specializations.

• Applies to all health insurers including accident and health insurance carriers, hospital and medical service plans, health maintenance organizations, and Medicaid managed care programs, effective for policies issued or renewed after December 31, 2023.