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HD 2218

An Act expanding access to mental health services

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Marjorie Decker and 2 co-sponsors

HD 2218: An Act Expanding Access to Mental Health Services OverviewBill Number: HD 2218 Title: An Act expanding access to mental health servicesStatus: Proposed billIntroduced: No

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Bill Summary · HD 2218

HD 2218: An Act Expanding Access to Mental Health Services

Overview

Bill Number: HD 2218
Title: An Act expanding access to mental health services
Status: Proposed bill
Introduced: November 29, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of this bill is to improve access to mental health services across the state by expanding insurance coverage, increasing provider capacity, and reducing financial barriers for individuals seeking care. The legislation is motivated by growing concerns over rising rates of mental health issues, long waitlists for treatment, and disparities in access to services, especially in underserved communities.

Key Provisions

  • Requires all private insurance plans to cover a minimum number of annual mental health therapy sessions without cost-sharing
  • Provides grants and loan forgiveness programs to incentivize more mental health professionals to practice in underserved areas
  • Establishes a state-run telehealth platform to connect individuals with licensed therapists, psychiatrists, and counselors
  • Expands Medicaid coverage for mental health services, including increasing reimbursement rates for providers
  • Creates a new state-funded voucher program to cover mental health treatment costs for low-income residents without insurance

Affected Parties and Impacts

This bill would have widespread impacts on individuals, families, employers, and the healthcare system:

  • Insured individuals would gain access to more affordable mental health services through their health plans
  • Uninsured and low-income residents would have greater access to subsidized mental health treatment
  • Mental health providers, especially in underserved areas, would see increased demand and financial support
  • Employers may see reduced absenteeism and improved worker productivity due to better access to mental healthcare
  • The state's overall healthcare costs could decrease as more people receive preventative mental health treatment

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

HD 2218 was introduced in the state legislature on November 29, 2025 and has been referred to the Joint Committee on Health Care Financing for review. If passed by the committee, the bill will move to a full floor vote in both the House and Senate. Given the bill's broad support from mental health advocates, healthcare providers, and legislative leadership, it is expected to advance through the legislative process over the next few months, with the goal of being signed into law by the governor before the end of the current session.

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

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