MD SB902

Repeals the June 30, 2025 termination date for provisions allowing health insurance members to obtain referrals to out-of-network specialists when in-network options are unavailable or inaccessible, making these protections permanent

Expands referral eligibility for mental health and substance use disorder services when carriers cannot meet regulatory appointment waiting time and travel distance standards

Requires carriers to provide additional assistance to members in identifying and arranging coverage with out-of-network mental health or substance use disorder providers when standard referral procedures fail

Prohibits carriers from imposing utilization review requirements on approved out-of-network referrals beyond what would apply to in-network providers, and requires cost-sharing for mental health/substance use services be no greater than in-network rates for the duration of treatment

Applies to health policies issued, delivered, or renewed in Maryland on or after January 1, 2026; approved by Governor Wes Moore on May 20, 2025