Senate Bill No. by Senator Talbot aims to enhance healthcare coverage for dental services related to cancer treatment by enacting R.S. 22:1077.5. The bill mandates that insurers provide coverage for medically necessary dental procedures for individuals diagnosed with cancer, including fluoride treatments and procedures to address infections, tooth loss, or decay that occur before or as a result of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, biological therapy, or radiation therapy. Additionally, the bill specifies that coverage must include laboratory assessments, medications, and treatments, as well as an obturator for patients with a defective oral cavity due to cancer treatment.

The bill also clarifies that insurers are not obligated to cover routine preventive dental care, such as cleanings and sealants. It establishes that the provisions will apply to new policies issued on or after January 1, 2027, with existing policies required to conform by their renewal date, but no later than January 1, 2028. The act will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for gubernatorial action.