This bill aims to enhance access to mental health services for children by prohibiting health plan companies from requiring co-payments for mental health services provided to individuals under the age of 18. Specifically, it establishes that health plans must not impose any co-payment for these services, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder children's access to necessary mental health care. However, it does allow for a co-payment requirement in the case of high-deductible health plans paired with health savings accounts, but only to the extent necessary to maintain the tax-exempt status of contributions and withdrawals as outlined in federal tax law.

The new legal language proposed in this bill is codified under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 62Q, specifically designated as section 62Q.474. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and will apply to all health plans that are offered, issued, or renewed on or after that date. This legislative change reflects a commitment to improving mental health care accessibility for children in Minnesota.