NAMI supports Connecticut House Bill 6975 for mental health insurance parity study

House Bill 6975, aimed at ensuring payment parity between mental health and physical health services in Connecticut, took center stage during the Public Health Committee hearing on February 26, 2025. Advocates from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) voiced strong support for the bill, highlighting the ongoing struggles many individuals face in accessing mental health care despite having insurance.

Testifying on behalf of NAMI, a representative emphasized that mental health parity laws have been in place for over a decade, yet compliance remains a significant issue. "Too many of our members routinely cannot access the mental health care that they are already paying for through their premiums," the representative stated. This lack of access often leads individuals to give up on seeking care, exacerbating their conditions and leading to dire consequences.

The testimony referenced a 2024 report indicating that four out of seven commercial insurers in Connecticut show signs of noncompliance with mental health parity laws. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for better data and accountability in the insurance industry. The representative warned that when mental health needs go unaddressed, it can lead to job loss, family breakdowns, and even loss of life.

Senator Ammar raised questions about the broader implications of mental health on physical health, to which the NAMI representative affirmed the interconnectedness of the two. "The whole mind-body connection is a real thing," they noted, stressing that neglecting mental health ultimately costs more in the long run.

The hearing also touched on the broader context of mental health legislation across the United States, with the NAMI representative acknowledging that while some states have made progress, the issue remains widespread. They urged the committee to favorably vote on HB 6975, emphasizing that it is a critical step toward ensuring that all individuals in Connecticut can access the care they need without facing financial discrimination.

As the committee continues to deliberate on this important legislation, the call for action is clear: mental health parity is not just a legal obligation but a moral imperative that impacts the well-being of countless individuals and families across the state.