The proposed bill mandates that the Arkansas Medicaid Program and health benefit plans provide coverage for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 agonists) when prescribed for weight loss. Specifically, the bill introduces a new section to the Arkansas Code under Title 20, Chapter 77, which states that the Arkansas Medicaid Program must cover these medications. Additionally, the Department of Human Services is required to seek any necessary federal waivers or state plan amendments to implement this coverage.

Furthermore, the bill adds a new section to Title 23, Chapter 79, which requires all health benefit plans offered, issued, or renewed in Arkansas to include coverage for GLP-1 agonists prescribed for weight loss, effective January 1, 2026. It also clarifies that coverage for government self-insured plans will adhere to the same provisions that apply to other services within the health benefit plan.