Gov. Gretchen Whitmer recently signed legislation that mandates insurance companies to cover mental health services and substance abuse disorder treatments at the same level as physical health services. Whitmer emphasized the importance of access to both mental and physical healthcare for all Michigan residents, stating that the bill will ensure equal coverage for these essential services.
During her 2022 State of the State address, Whitmer introduced a range of policies aimed at improving mental health access in the state, including the equal coverage of mental health and substance use disorders. Senate Bill 27, sponsored by state Sen. Sarah Anthony and supported by members of both parties in the House and Senate, was passed into law.
Rep. Mike Harris, a supporter of the new law, highlighted its importance for holistic care. He stated that it guarantees that health insurance coverage includes mental health care, allowing Michiganders to access necessary services and treatments. Marianne Huff, president and CEO of the Mental Health Association of Michigan, noted that the bill aligns with federal legislation such as the Federal Mental Health Parity and Addictions Act of 2008 and recognizes the interconnectedness of the brain, mind, and body as a unified system.