OK SB1646

Requires health benefit plans providing hospital, medical, or surgical coverage to cover medically necessary treatment of mental health and substance use disorders, consistent with guidelines from nationally recognized nonprofit clinical specialty associations

Prohibits health plans from limiting benefits for chronic or pervasive mental health and substance use disorders to short-term or acute treatment, and bars plans from rescinding or modifying authorizations after providers render services in good faith

Mandates that utilization review criteria adhere to generally accepted standards of mental health and substance use disorder care, with denials and appeals reviewed by professionals with equivalent education and experience as the requesting provider

Authorizes the Insurance Commissioner to assess civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation, or $10,000 per willful violation, for health plans that violate these requirements

Takes effect January 1, 2027