Mental Health Matters Act Proposed in House

Representative Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA) has introduced H.R. 7780, the “Mental Health Matters Act,” which strengthens behavioral health benefits in schools and also amends provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).  Related to group health plans, the Act amends ERISA section 502(a) to expand the type of remedy permitted by a civil action brought by the Secretary, the participant or beneficiary, or the plan’s fiduciary to include readjudication of claims and payment of benefits in accordance with plan terms.

The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Education and Labor.