The bill enacts two new sections, R.S. 22:1059.4 and R.S. 22:1059.5, which mandate health insurance coverage for pregnancy-related nutrition counseling and postpartum lactation support services in Louisiana. Specifically, it requires that any health coverage plan providing maternity services must include coverage for nutrition counseling by licensed dietitians or nutritionists during the first trimester, without necessitating a diagnosis of gestational diabetes. Additionally, the bill prohibits any discriminatory language against these professionals in health coverage policies. It also establishes definitions for key terms related to health coverage plans and the qualifications of nutrition and lactation care providers.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that postpartum services provided by qualified lactation care providers must be covered as preventive benefits under the Affordable Care Act, exempting covered individuals from annual deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. The legislation aims to address Louisiana's high maternal and infant mortality rates by promoting better health outcomes through improved access to nutrition and lactation support. The provisions of the bill will apply to new health coverage plans issued on or after January 1, 2026, with existing plans required to comply by their renewal date, but no later than January 1, 2027.