BILL NUMBER: S8352
SPONSOR: ADDABBO
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the insurance law, in relation to requiring insurance
coverage of outpatient problem gambling services
 
PURPOSE:
As we continue to expand gambling opportunities, we should expect an
increase in New Yorkers seeking help for problem gambling. Current law
does not require insurers to cover problem gambling treatment provided
by OASAS certified treatment programs unless the person also has an
associated substance use disorder. Thus, the network of providers best
able to address the issue are not able to do so. Without this change,
many in need of help will be unable to find it.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Subparagraph (A) of paragraph 31 of subsection (i) of section 3216 of
the insurance law, as amended by section 6 of subpart A of part BB of
chapter 57 of the laws of 2019, is amended to read as follows:
Every policy that provides medical, major medical or similar comprehen-
sive-type coverage shall provide outpatient coverage for the diagnosis
and treatment of substance use disorder, including detoxification and,
rehabilitation, and problem gambling services. Such coverage shall not
apply financial requirements or treatment limitations to Outpatient
substance use disorder benefits that are more restrictive than the
predominant financial requirements and treatment limitations applied to
substantially all medical and surgical benefits covered by the policy.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
According to recent data and reports from the National Council on Prob-
lem Gambling, there has been a significant increase in problem gambling,
particularly since the legalization of sports betting, with more people
reporting gambling issues and a rise in calls to gambling addiction
hotlines; experts attribute this to increased accessibility through
online platforms and mobile apps.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New Bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
None to the state
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.

Statutes affected:
S8352: 3216 insurance law, 3216(i) insurance law, 3221 insurance law, 3221(l) insurance law, 4303 insurance law