The White House has announced new rules aimed at addressing the issue of health insurance companies not adhering to federal laws regarding coverage of mental health treatments, according to a statement. President Biden unveiled the proposed rules, which seek to ensure that health insurance companies provide coverage for mental health care in accordance with the law. Biden expressed concern over the disparity between the coverage of physical health issues and mental health crises. He highlighted the fact that patients often have to seek out-of-network care, which is more expensive. Senator Debbie Stabenow, a Democrat from Michigan, emphasized the need for insurance companies to cover mental illness just like any other illness. The White House pointed out that insurance companies are circumventing the rules by imposing hurdles such as excessive paperwork and limited in-network providers, thereby indirectly impeding access to mental health care. If finalized, the new rules will require insurers to demonstrate that they are providing sufficient access to mental health care and appropriately reimbursing providers. Additionally, the rules will close a loophole by including mental health coverage in state and local government employee health plans. President Biden stressed that insurance companies must comply with the law. Stabenow predicted that the new rules would have a significant impact, especially considering that one in five individuals experience mental illness in their lifetime. Currently, about half of all adults and 70% of children with mental illness are not receiving treatment, according to President Biden.