Government & Regulation

North Carolina has restructured its mental healthcare system to give more authority to the Department of Health and Human Services secretary, Charlotte Public Radio reported Oct. 22.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a bill updating the state's conservatorship laws for the first time in over 50 years.

Some lawmakers are concerned about access to behavioral care in Medicare Advantage. 

U.S. Sens. Katie Britt of Alabama and Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota have partnered to introduce a bipartisan bill focused on youth mental health.

Washington state will impose a $500,000 fine on UnitedHealthcare for failing to demonstrate its compliance with mental health parity laws. 

Groups representing insurers are urging CMS not to implement a proposed rule that would toughen mental health parity laws. 

The California Legislature is holding a special oversight hearing of the Senate Select Committee on Mental Health and Addiction Oct. 18 to determine health plans' willingness to cover an expanded range of mental conditions, California Local reported Oct. 17.

In March, California voters will weigh in on a $6.8 billion bond initiative to fund new behavioral health treatment and housing spaces in the state. 

California is expanding the kinds of autism treatments insurers in the state must cover, and expanding the definition of qualified autism service professionals. 

CMS is seeking input from the public on improving access to mental health treatment in Medicaid.