(DES MOINES) – On Wednesday, March 10, Representative Michael Bergan (R-Dorchester) successfully floor-managed House File 773 to address the shortage of mental health services in Iowa through the Iowa House of Representatives.

HF 773 creates a statewide study of Iowa’s mental health services. This information will help identify opportunities to better serve Iowans suffering from mental illness. This statewide study is also the first step in requesting an 1115 Waiver from the federal government which would provide additional funds for services to treat mental illness.

“Among the top issues I have heard from constituents is the need to expand access to mental health services across Iowa,” said Rep. Bergan. “This bill is an important step in addressing that issue and giving every Iowan the access to the quality mental health care they deserve. This is among my top priorities in the Iowa statehouse and I was honored to run this bill and see it pass unanimously through the Iowa House.”

HF 773 passed the Iowa House unanimously by a vote of 97-0.

This week, Rep. Bergan also voted in support of additional legislation to expand access to mental health services in Iowa. HF 294 requires health insurers to reimburse for mental health services provided through telehealth at the same rate as services provided in-person. HF 294 passed the Iowa House 96-0.