Yesterday, a House committee advanced legislation that would require employers to provide the same insurance coverage for mental health disorders as they do for medical services. According to WashingtonTimes.com, the bill passed 32 to 13, sending it to the floor. Though President Bush hasn't pledged to sign the legislation, he has indicated interest in creating equal treatment for mental health care and medical coverage. A competing bill was approved by the Senate last month, which the Bush administration strongly supports. "We are concerned the House bill could have a negative effect on the accessibility and affordability of employer-provided health benefits," said Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao along with Human Services Secretary Michael O. Leavitt in a letter to senators.

According to Congressional Budget Office estimates, both versions of the bill would mean slightly higher premiums for employer-sponsored health care. Employers and insurers have already spoken out against cost concerns in the House bill. For more detailed information, check out the rest of this article.