Vella Passes Bill to Expand Mental Health Access

ROCKFORD, Ill. – State Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, passed legislation to expand access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment by requiring private insurers to provide fairer and more consistent reimbursement rates. 

“Too many families here in Rockford and across our region are waiting far too long to get the help they need,” said Vella. “This bill makes it easier for people to get timely, affordable mental health care without jumping through hoops. Mental health is health and folks should be able to count on the coverage they pay for. By holding insurers accountable, we’re making sure people can actually use their insurance when it matters most.”

This bill sets minimum reimbursement rates for behavioral health services, strengthens mental health rules, and expands coverage for medically necessary same-day services. It also cuts down on administrative hurdles by guaranteeing coverage for 60-minute therapy sessions without excessive paperwork and speeding up credentialing for in-network providers.

“This bill supports both patients and the local providers who serve our community,” said Vella. “By making reimbursement fair and reducing unnecessary paperwork, we can keep more clinicians in-network and improve access right here at home. This is a real win for families across Illinois, because strengthening behavioral health access will save lives.”

The law applies to state-regulated plans beginning January 1, 2027.

For more information, please contact RepDaveVella@gmail.com.

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