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 equivalent to that provided for other covered individuals, including necessary care for congenital defects and birth abnormalities.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that require notification of the newborn's birth and payment of any necessary premium within 31 days to maintain coverage beyond that period. However, it states that no additional premium will be charged for the newborn's coverage during the first 31 days. The bill applies to all insurance policies and contracts issued in the state, including those in effect since July 5, 1975, and is set to take effect on January 1, 2026. Key deletions from the current law include the removal of specific language regarding coverage for injury or sickness, while new insertions clarify the primary coverage status and the conditions under which the newborn will be covered.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 415:22
As Amended by the Senate: 415:22