Requirement that health plan companies must credential and contract with certain providers of mental health services extended.

This bill requires health insurance companies in Minnesota to continue credentialed mental health providers from specific types of entities and to credential new providers meeting certain criteria. It directly affects health plan companies and mental health service providers, particularly those working with certified clinics, essential community providers, or entities authorized to bill under specific state programs. The law mandates that insurers cannot refuse to credential providers based on having enough providers in their network and must allow credentialing waivers for providers in underserved or rural areas to ensure timely patient access. Contracts with new providers must include payment rates that are usual and customary for the services provided, and the changes apply retroactively starting June 30, 2025.