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, her policy 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 a provision that no extra premium will be charged for the newborn's coverage during the first 31 days after birth. It requires that notification of the birth and any necessary premium payments must be submitted to the insurer within this timeframe to maintain coverage beyond 31 days. The bill applies to all insurance policies and contracts issued in the state, including those already in effect as of July 5, 1975, and is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 415:22
As Amended by the Senate: 415:22
Version adopted by both bodies: 415:22
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 415:22