Bill > HR3758

This bill aims to establish parity in disability benefits for workers with mental health conditions and substance use disorders by amending the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). The legislation responds to a 2023 ERISA Advisory Council report that found discriminatory benefit limitations for workers with behavioral health conditions, which often include shorter disability benefit durations compared to those for physical health conditions. The bill requires disability benefit plans to provide equal coverage for disabilities arising from mental health conditions or substance use disorders as those for physical health conditions, meaning plans cannot impose more restrictive limitations, exclusions, or restrictions. Additionally, the bill mandates that physical health conditions caused by mental health or substance use disorder disabilities be considered part of the original disability. The legislation applies to both private employee benefit plans and governmental employee benefit plans, with enforcement mechanisms that include civil monetary penalties for non-compliance and the ability for individuals to bring legal action. The Secretary of Labor is tasked with conducting a cost study, providing education to plan sponsors, and developing implementation regulations. The bill includes a phased implementation approach, with amendments applying to plan years beginning 18 months after enactment, and special provisions for existing collective bargaining agreements. An annual authorization of $10 million is provided to support the bill's implementation.

Education

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3758/all-info