This bill requires disability insurance plans to treat mental health conditions and substance use disorders the same way they treat physical health conditions. Currently, many long-term disability plans impose stricter limits—such as shorter benefit periods—on claims related to behavioral health compared to physical injuries or illnesses. The legislation applies to private employer plans covered under federal pension law (ERISA) and to state and local government employee plans and private insurance companies offering disability coverage. The bill prohibits plans from placing more restrictive limitations on behavioral health-related disabilities and requires them to treat physical conditions caused by mental health or substance use disorders as part of the underlying disability. The Secretary of Labor will enforce these requirements and conduct a cost study within 18 months; the bill authorizes $10 million annually for five years to implement the changes. The new rules take effect 18 months after enactment, with a later deadline for union-negotiated plans.
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