This bill aims to enhance access to preventive behavioral health services for children and young adults under 21 years old by mandating coverage for these services across various insurance policies. It introduces a new section in multiple chapters of the General Laws, defining "preventive behavioral health services" as short-term interventions that help cultivate coping skills for symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other emotional concerns. The bill requires that any insurance coverage provided to active or retired employees, as well as general health policies, must include at least six sessions of these preventive services without prior authorization and with no patient cost-sharing, unless it would jeopardize the tax-exempt status of the plan.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that insurers must accept alternative diagnosis codes, including Social Determinants of Health Z-codes, as primary diagnoses for claims related to preventive behavioral health services. The Division of Insurance, in collaboration with the Office of Medicaid, is tasked with developing guidance to implement these coverage requirements effectively. This legislative effort seeks to address the mental health needs of young individuals and ensure they receive necessary support without financial barriers.