SB 5211 - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 1ST SUB)

     Finds that without comparable mental health benefits for children, families are often unable to pay for needed services.  As a result, many children do without the treatment they need, which significantly impacts their ability to learn, and their opportunities for a productive future.

     Finds that the costs for leaving mental disorders untreated or undertreated are enormous, and often include:  Decreased job productivity, increased job turnover, loss of employment, increased disability costs, deteriorating school performance, increased use of other health care services, treatment delays leading to more costly treatments, suicide, family breakdown and impoverishment, and institutionalization, whether in hospitals, juvenile detention, jails, or prisons.

     Declares an intent to require comparable mental health coverage for children and catastrophic mental health coverage for adults under the terms of this act.

     Repeals RCW 48.21.240, 48.44.340, and 48.46.290.