The proposed bill mandates that health benefit plans in Arkansas provide coverage for birthing services delivered in licensed birthing centers, effective January 1, 2026. It establishes a new subchapter under Arkansas Code Title 23, Chapter 79, titled "Coverage for Licensed Birthing Centers." The bill defines key terms such as "enrollee," "health benefit plan," "healthcare insurer," and "licensed birthing center," ensuring clarity in the coverage requirements. Notably, the coverage for services in licensed birthing centers must be equivalent to that provided for services in hospitals, without imposing higher deductibles, coinsurance, copayments, or out-of-pocket limits than those applicable to other benefits under the health benefit plan.

Additionally, the bill allows the Insurance Commissioner and the Secretary of the Department of Human Services to develop rules for the implementation and administration of this new coverage requirement, particularly as it pertains to state programs like Medicaid. This legislative change aims to enhance access to birthing services in licensed birthing centers, promoting a broader range of options for expectant mothers while ensuring that their insurance coverage remains comprehensive and equitable.