Sec. 9. (a) This section does not apply if the application of this section would increase the premiums of the health services policy or plan, as certified under IC 27-8-5-15.7, by more than four percent (4%) as a result of complying with subsection (c).

     (b) As used in this section, “coverage of services for mental illness” includes benefits with respect to mental health services as defined by the contract, policy, or plan for health services. The term includes services for the treatment of substance abuse and chemical dependency when the services are required in the treatment of a mental illness.

     (c) If the state enters into a contract for health services through prepaid health care delivery plans, medical self-insurance, or group health insurance for state employees, the contract may not permit treatment limitations or financial requirements on the coverage of services for mental illness if similar limitations or requirements are not imposed on the coverage of services for other medical or surgical conditions.

     (d) This section applies to a contract for health services through prepaid health care delivery plans, medical self-insurance, or group medical coverage for state employees that is issued, entered into, or renewed after June 30, 1997.

     (e) This section does not require the contract for health services to offer mental health benefits.

As added by P.L.42-1997, SEC.1. Amended by P.L.81-1999, SEC.1; P.L.291-2001, SEC.230.