SB 480 by Hilda Solis requires the California Secretary of Health and Welfare to study ways that universal health coverage in California might be achieved and to report the results to the legislature by 2003. The Secretary is directed to conduct public hearings on the subject and to examine the results of an academic study evaluating several options that is currently being undertaken at the behest of the legislature. New Mandated Mental Health Benefits AB 88 by Helen Thomson mandates parity in insurance coverage by health plans and disability insurers for diagnosis and medically necessary treatment of certain severe mental disorders. The law takes effect on July 1, 2000. The terms and conditions of coverage must be the same as are applied to other medical conditions regarding maximum lifetime benefits, deductibles and co-payments.
Parity also applies to serious emotional disturbances of children.
SB 349 by Liz Figueroa ensures that psychiatric emergencies are covered under existing laws that govern coverage of medical emergencies by health care service plans. The patient is entitled to evaluation to determine whether a psychiatric emergency exists and if so, to receive treatment until his or her condition has stabilized. These services are to be covered even if the patient was also evaluated for a non-psychiatric medical emergency during the same visit. Religious employers may opt out of this requirement for contraceptive methods that violate their religious tenets. SB 41 by Jackie Speier requires the same coverage as AB 39, for insured s under disability insurance policies.