Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation on Tuesday that ensures insurance companies cover mental health services and substance abuse disorder treatments at the same level as physical health services. In a statement, Whitmer emphasized the importance of access to both mental and physical healthcare for all Michigan residents. The bipartisan bill, Senate Bill 27, requires insurers to provide equal coverage for mental health and substance use disorder treatments, closing loopholes that have previously allowed providers to avoid covering these essential services.
During her 2022 State of the State address, Whitmer proposed policies to expand mental health access in Michigan, including the equal coverage of mental health and substance use disorders. Senate Bill 27 was sponsored by State Senator Sarah Anthony and had broad support from both Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate. Representative Mike Harris, who supported the policy, highlighted the importance of mental health care in achieving overall wellness.
The new law guarantees that health insurance coverage includes mental health care, allowing Michiganders to access critical services and treatments. Marianne Huff, president and CEO of the Mental Health Association of Michigan, noted that the bill aligns with the Federal Mental Health Parity and Addictions Act of 2008, recognizing the interconnected nature of the brain, mind, and body as a unified system. This legislation marks a significant step towards ensuring holistic care for Michiganders’ overall well-being.