Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement on the newly released rule for the implementation of the Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act. The rules require health insurance to cover both mental and physical health equally by prohibiting plans from limiting mental health benefits. Since the passage of this historic law in 2008, Loebsack has been pushing the Administration to issue a final rule so the law could be fully implemented.
"As someone whose mother struggled with mental health issues, I have experienced firsthand the necessity of timely and proper care. I am incredibly pleased that the final rule for the Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act has been issued. Mental illness is just that: an illness. Those who need access to treatment should not face additional burdens because their suffering is mental rather than physical.
"As a result of this law, patients who seek mental health treatment will no longer face higher out of pocket costs or arbitrary limitations on their services. It is my hope that this will prompt those who have been reluctant to seek treatment due to the financial burden to get the help that they need.
"This is an important step towards addressing the mental health needs of all Iowans, but there is still more work to be done. We must continue to break down the stigma that surrounds asking for help as well as improve access to services in our schools for struggling students, and I will continue to fight for these goals."
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