Manley Urges Governor to Sign Initiative Expanding Mental Health Coverage

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – Legislation recently passed by state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, to make mental health care resources more accessible will now head to Gov. JB Pritzker’s desk to be signed into law.

“With the unique challenges we faced this last year, it became evident that access to affordable mental health coverage is more important than ever,” said Manley. “While mental trauma and other conditions may not be visible like many physical injuries or illnesses, health care coverage should cover all aspects of our overall health.”

Manley recently passed House Bill 2595, which if signed into law would require insurers and Medicaid managed care organizations to provide coverage for medically necessary treatment of mental, emotional or substance use disorders or conditions. Manley’s measure recently passed both the Illinois House of Representatives and Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support, and now heads to Pritzker’s desk.

“As our state battled the COVID-19 pandemic, we learned that accessible health care for both physical and mental health can make a huge difference in the lives of many people across our state,” continued Manley. “I urge the governor to sign this legislation into law, to hold insurance companies accountable, and ensure that Illinoisans have the total health coverage they need.”