WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SD 1918

An Act eliminating cost sharing for certain behavioral health services

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Julian Cyr

Massachusetts bill eliminates patient cost-sharing for specified mental health and substance abuse treatment to increase access and reduce financial barriers to care.

House concurred
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 1918

Legislative bill overview

SD 1918 proposes eliminating cost sharing (copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles) for specified behavioral health services in Massachusetts. The bill aims to remove financial barriers to mental health and substance use disorder treatment by making these services available without out-of-pocket costs to patients. This aligns with federal parity law requirements and state insurance regulations.

Why is this important

Behavioral health conditions affect millions of Massachusetts residents, but cost remains a significant barrier to treatment access. Eliminating cost sharing could increase treatment initiation and adherence rates, potentially reducing emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and other costly downstream health outcomes. The policy reflects growing recognition that mental health and addiction services should be as accessible as primary care.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and premiums: Insurers may argue that eliminating cost sharing increases overall insurance costs, potentially raising premiums for all consumers or requiring employer/state subsidies
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's definition of "certain behavioral health services" is unclear—determining which specific services are covered could trigger disputes between insurers, providers, and regulators
  • Moral hazard concerns: Critics may contend that removing all cost sharing could lead to overutilization of services, though evidence on behavioral health is mixed
  • Implementation complexity: Health plans would need system changes to process claims without cost sharing, and defining "medically necessary" services remains contentious

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.