This bill amends existing health insurance laws to establish that a birth mother's health insurance policy will be the primary coverage for her newborn child from the moment of birth. The bill specifies that if the birth mother has health insurance, it will cover the newborn without any additional cost-sharing. In cases where the birth mother does not have insurance or coverage under an employer-sponsored health plan, the policy of the other parent may provide coverage. The bill also clarifies that coverage for the newborn will be the same as that provided for other covered individuals, including necessary care for congenital defects and birth abnormalities.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions regarding the notification and premium requirements for coverage to continue beyond the initial 31 days after birth. It states that no additional premium will be collected for the newborn's coverage during this period. The language of the bill deletes certain phrases and inserts new provisions to ensure clarity and comprehensiveness in the coverage requirements. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 170-G:8-a