The Biden administration has finalized a rule aimed at improving access to mental health and substance use disorder services, ensuring they are covered at the same level as physical health care. This rule reinforces the 2008 Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, which mandates equal coverage but has often been poorly implemented, leaving many Americans unable to access necessary care. President Biden emphasized the need for mental health care to be treated equally to other health conditions, stating that no one should face financial hardship due to mental health treatment. The new regulations require insurers to assess their provider networks, payment structures, and prior authorization practices, which could lead to increased availability of mental health professionals. While the rule is set to take effect for plan years starting January 1, 2026, it aims to address the ongoing mental health crisis in the U.S., where many individuals face high out-of-pocket costs for care. Critics highlight the long-standing challenges in enforcing these provisions and the role of state regulations in health care.