Negotiations over key differences in the bills for mental health insurance parity are moving forward now that the House signaled it is willing to drop its insistence on using the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) to define psychiatric disorders. The Paul Wellstone Mental Health and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 (H.R. 1424) had overwhelming support from 274 co-sponsors, and passed the House by a large margin in March. But using the DSM to define psychiatric and substance abuse disorders became the most contentious aspect of a bill to end insurance discrimination for coverage when a business employed at 50 or more people. Business and insurance groups mounted heavy lobbying campaigns favoring the Senate's bill (S. 558) which did not require DSM definitions. On Monday, the House put forth a preliminary offer and this provision was absent. Insurance parity has long been among the signature concerns of two long-time proponents, Rep. Jim Ramstad (R-Minn) and Sen. Pete Dominici (R-NM), who are not seeking re-election.
In recent days, advocacy organizations such as the Bazelon Center called for citizens to lobby on behalf of parity before the 110th Congress adjourns.
To track H.R. 1424 through the House of Representatives, click here.
To track S. 558 through the Senate, click here.
