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Bill

H 1131

An Act expanding access to mental health services

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Marjorie Decker and 4 co-sponsors

Massachusetts H 1131 expands mental health service access, likely through increased coverage and reduced barriers, currently under Financial Services Committee review.

Accompanied a new draft, see H4895
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Bill Summary · H 1131

Legislative bill overview

H 1131 expands access to mental health services in Massachusetts through mechanisms that likely include increased funding, insurance coverage requirements, or removal of barriers to care. The bill has progressed through initial legislative stages and was referred to the Financial Services Committee, suggesting it involves budgetary or insurance-related provisions.

Why is this important

Mental health service access remains a significant public health challenge, with waitlists, geographic gaps, and insurance limitations preventing many from receiving needed care. Expanding access could reduce untreated mental illness, improve workforce productivity, and decrease burden on emergency departments and the criminal justice system.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding mechanism: Whether expansion is funded through general revenue, insurance premium increases, or employer mandates will affect stakeholder support
  • Insurance coverage scope: Disputes may arise over which services are covered, session limits, provider networks, and out-of-pocket costs
  • Provider capacity and reimbursement: Questions about whether the bill adequately addresses provider shortages and whether reimbursement rates are sufficient to attract and retain mental health professionals

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

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