Mental health parity

Two years ago we passed a mental health parity bill, which became law, requiring insurance policies covering more than 50 employees to treat diseases of the mind the same as diseases of the body.

I helped champion that measure, and when you take a look at the statistics, it’s hard to argue against mental health parity: Some 295,884 Washingtonians – 105,969 of whom are children – have a serious mental illness or serious emotional disorder, according to a 2003 report conducted by the state Department of Health and Social Services. (That number does not include the homeless or those with a mild mental illness.)

I’m pleased to report that on Friday, we passed a measure (House Bill 1460) to extend that coverage to insurance policies issued for all groups and individuals. It passed with only three descending votes, and now goes to the governor, who is expected to sign it into law soon.

Prescription discount card

Recently, Gov. Chris Gregoire unveiled a new, state-sponsored prescription drug discount program that is expected to save Washingtonians an average of 20 percent on brand-name drugs and 60 percent on generic drugs. It is available, now, to all residents – regardless of age or income, – who do not have prescription drug coverage, or whose insurance does not cover all of their prescription drug needs.

You can enroll in the Washington Prescription Drug Program by going to www.rx.wa.gov. You can also dial a toll-free number (800-913-4146) to enroll, but because of the popularity of the program, you may have an easier time applying online.

Budget update

Many of you have inquired about when the Senate will propose its two-year budgets. I expect the operating, construction and transportation budgets to come out this week (March 26-30). I will include a full report of them – including how they’ll help Spokane – in next week’s legislative update.

Presidential primary

During the past couple of weeks the debate has heated up in Olympia about the 2008 presidential primary.

Some argue the $9.7 million cost isn’t worth it because Washington holds one of the latest primaries in the country, in May, making it almost meaningless. In fact, in 2004, lawmakers voted to cancel it altogether.

Others argue the date should be moved up – to February or March – believing if the primary is held earlier, more presidential candidates would travel here to talk to voters. Personally, I’m not 100 percent convinced of that because so many other states also hold their primaries then, making competition for candidate appearances in Washington extremely competitive.

As a member of the Presidential Primary Date Selection Committee, I listened to all of the arguments Friday. While we have not yet reached a consensus, we will reconvene after the Legislature adjourns to discuss our options again.

In the meantime, I look forward to receiving your feedback on the issue.

Stay tuned for next week’s edition.

Sincerely,
Lisa

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