In 1996, Congress passed and President signed the Mental Health Parity Act. The act does not affect service limits, such as limits on outpatient visits, or cost sharing, such as deductibles. Nor does it apply to substance abuse benefits. States have mandated parity, as well. Others have enacted legislation conforming to the federal mandate.
Opinion differs as to the costs and effects of parity mandates.
Following are the key findings of the study. Please see the full text for the specific context of each finding. Most State parity laws are limited in scope or application. Few address substance abuse treatment, and many are limited to treatment for serious mental illnesses. Many exempt small employers or only apply to plans for government employees.