This document provides an overview of essential information necessary for understanding mental health and substance use disorder parity and how to implement and comply with federal parity laws. This guide applies to parity laws in employer-sponsored health plans and group and individual insurance.

This resource describes the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 for people with employer-sponsored health plans who need treatment for mental and/or substance use disorders. It discusses how to file a claim, the denial of a claim and the appeals process.

This handbook reviews Medicaid and its role in financing services and treatment for mental illness and substance use disorders. It discusses services included in state Medicaid plans and other factors related to Medicaid, such as reimbursement.

This report presents findings on compliance with the Synar Amendment aimed at decreasing youth access to tobacco. It reviews progress in enforcing state youth tobacco access laws and reducing the percentage of retailers selling tobacco products to minors.