The proposed bill mandates that health benefit plans in Arkansas provide coverage for necessary maxillofacial services. It introduces a new section, 23-99-422, which defines key terms related to the coverage, including "health benefit plan," "healthcare insurer," "healthcare professional," and "necessary maxillofacial services." The bill specifies that necessary maxillofacial services are healthcare services aimed at restoring and managing head and facial structures affected by disease, trauma, or deformities, and includes services for controlling infection, pain, or restoring functions like speech and chewing. Importantly, it clarifies that cosmetic procedures intended to enhance normal conditions are not included in this coverage.

Additionally, the bill states that exclusions for dental care or orthodontic services in health benefit plans do not apply to necessary maxillofacial services, ensuring that individuals requiring these services are not denied coverage based on existing dental exclusions. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2023.