SPRINGFIELD – To further increase access to mental health treatment, State Senator Napoleon Harris III supported a law extending the existing prior authorization ban to cover medically necessary outpatient mental health services.

“This law will help break down barriers to mental health care that many people in our community face,” said Harris (D-Harvey). “Over the years, people are prioritizing mental health more and more, and our laws should reflect that seriousness.” 

Last year, the Healthcare Protection Act was signed into law, making health care more accessible and affordable for Illinoisans. The law banned step therapy requirements, prohibited prior authorization for inpatient mental health care at hospitals, banned junk insurance plans, and ended unchecked rate increases for large group insurance companies.

Building on this effort, House Bill 3019 extends the prior authorization ban on inpatient mental health care to outpatient services and partial mental health treatment hospitalizations covered by state-regulated insurance, private insurance plans and Medicaid. The new law also requires insurers to report how they are spending dollars from insurance premiums to the Department of Insurance in order to ensure consumers’ premium dollars are being properly spent.  Additionally, regulated commercial insurers must reimburse individuals for travel costs associated with attending behavioral health appointments when the distance traveled exceeds the network adequacy requirements.

House Bill 3019 was signed into law last month. It takes effect Jan. 1, 2026.