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Bill Summary · SB 47

Summary of Senate Bill 47 (SB 47)

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 47 (SB 47) aims to conduct a comprehensive study on the parity of behavioral health care coverage compared to other medical care within public and private insurance plans in Nevada. The bill seeks to assess compliance with federal mental health parity laws and identify gaps in coverage, workforce issues, and the economic impacts of inadequate behavioral health care.

Key Provisions

  • Study Authorization: The bill requires the Commissioner of Insurance to apply for gifts, grants, and donations to fund the study. Once sufficient funding is secured, the Commissioner must contract with a qualified entity to conduct the study.

  • Data Collection: Public and private health insurers, as well as other relevant entities, are mandated to submit necessary data to the Commissioner or the contracted entity. Non-compliance may result in the issuance of subpoenas for data production.

  • Confidentiality Protections: The bill ensures confidentiality for any personally identifiable information or proprietary data submitted during the study.

  • Annual Reporting: The Commissioner is required to submit annual progress reports to the Legislature regarding the funding and conduct of the study. Upon completion, the contractor must report findings and recommendations to the Commissioner, the Governor, and the Legislature.

  • Scope of the Study: The study will include:

    • Compliance analysis with the Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008.
    • Comparison of coverage terms for behavioral health care versus other medical care, including network adequacy, reimbursement rates, and rates of denial of coverage.
    • Investigation into the adequacy of the behavioral health workforce and the outcomes of inadequate care.
    • Economic impacts of behavioral health conditions, including costs related to emergency care and unemployment.

Impact

  • Affected Parties: The bill will impact health insurers, behavioral health providers, and individuals seeking behavioral health services in Nevada. It aims to enhance access to care and ensure equitable treatment for behavioral health issues.

  • Potential Fiscal Impact: While the fiscal notes indicate that the bill would not directly affect state or local funding, there may be indirect financial implications related to data collection and study administration.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: January 22, 2025
  • Status: As of June 3, 2025, no further action has been taken on the bill.
  • Committee Review: The bill was reviewed by the Senate Committee on Commerce and Labor and received support from various stakeholders, including behavioral health advocates.

Conclusion

SB 47 represents a significant step toward addressing disparities in behavioral health care coverage in Nevada. By conducting a thorough study, the bill aims to inform policy changes that could improve access to essential behavioral health services and ensure compliance with federal parity laws.

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

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