The proposed bill mandates coverage for breastfeeding and lactation consultant services under health benefit plans in Arkansas, effective January 1, 2026. It introduces a new subchapter, "Coverage for Breastfeeding and Lactation Consultants," to the Arkansas Code Title 23, Chapter 79. The bill defines key terms, including "breastfeeding and lactation consultant," which encompasses International Board Certified Lactation Consultants and certified lactation counselors, provided they are supervised by a contracted healthcare provider. The Arkansas Medicaid Program is required to reimburse these consultants for their services if they meet specific criteria.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that coverage for breastfeeding and lactation consultant services will not be subject to annual deductibles, copayments, or coinsurance limits, ensuring that these services are fully accessible to enrollees. The Insurance Commissioner and the Secretary of the Department of Human Services are authorized to develop rules for the implementation and administration of this subchapter, which may also apply to the Arkansas Medicaid Program and other state health benefit programs.