This bill requires health insurers, including the State Health Benefits Program (SHBP), School Employees' Health Benefits Program (SEHBP), and NJ FamilyCare, to provide coverage for sign language interpreter services for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing during healthcare encounters. The coverage must include both in-person and video remote interpreter services when in-person interpreters are unavailable. The bill specifies that coverage will not extend to family members or friends serving as interpreters unless they are qualified and have the consent of the individual needing interpretation, with additional restrictions in cases of suspected domestic violence or child abuse. It also establishes a minimum reimbursement rate of $42.40 per hour for NJ FamilyCare enrollees and $42.53 for those covered under SHBP or SEHBP.

Additionally, the bill defines key terms such as "deaf," "hard of hearing," "qualified sign language interpreter," and "video remote interpreting services" to ensure clarity in the services covered. It emphasizes that the benefits provided under this act must be equivalent to those for any other medical condition under the respective insurance contracts. The intent of the bill is to codify existing federal requirements to enhance accessibility and communication for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing in healthcare settings, thereby promoting equitable healthcare access.