The bill amends existing health insurance laws to enhance coverage for hearing aids, specifically increasing the coverage limit from $1,500 to $1,750 per individual hearing aid, per ear. This new coverage requirement will apply to all individual or group health insurance contracts, as well as hospital or medical expense insurance policies issued or renewed in the state on or after January 1, 2026. Additionally, the bill removes the previous limitation that restricted coverage for individuals under 19 years of age to one hearing aid every three years, allowing for coverage without age restrictions. Moreover, the bill introduces optional riders for additional hearing aid coverage in group health insurance contracts, while clarifying that these provisions do not apply to contracts governed by the small employer health insurance availability act. The definition of "hearing aid" is refined to exclude batteries and other assistive listening devices. Insurers retain discretion over the choice of hearing aid providers and reimbursement policies, and the bill does not impact other types of insurance coverage, such as long-term care or Medicare supplement plans. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
120: 27-18-60, 27-19-51, 27-20-46, 27-41-63