Number: RL31657
Title: Mental Health Parity: Federal and State Action and Economic Impact
Authors: Ramya Sundararaman and C. Stephen Redhead, Domestic Social Policy Division 
Abstract: In the 110th Congress, the Senate and House have passed different versions of expanded mental health parity legislation (S. 558 and H.R. 1424). These bills have always been strongly supported by advocates for the mentally ill and have had broad, bipartisan support in Congress. Although employers and health insurance groups opposed the legislation in the past because of concern that it would drive up costs, the provisions in S. 558 now have their support. Expanded parity legislation was introduced in the 107th, 108th, and 109th Congresses, but each time it failed to pass.
Pages: 27
Date: June 19, 2008