This bill mandates that health insurance plans in Minnesota provide coverage for augmentative and alternative communication systems, which are essential for individuals with severe expressive communication limitations. The bill defines these systems and includes related habilitation services, ensuring that coverage is deemed medically necessary by a prescribing physician. It prohibits health plans from imposing separate financial requirements or quantitative limits on these services. Additionally, the bill allows for prior authorization for these systems and services, ensuring that health plans apply evidence-based guidelines in their determinations and do not discriminate based on an enrollee's disability.

The bill also includes provisions for reimbursement to health plan companies for the costs associated with this coverage, with an appropriation for necessary funds each fiscal year. It amends existing statutes to align with the new coverage requirements and specifies that these changes will take effect on January 1, 2026. The bill aims to enhance access to communication aids for individuals with disabilities, thereby improving their quality of life and ability to communicate effectively.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 256B.0625, 256B.4914