The bill amends Section 1367.253(a) of the Insurance Code to require health benefit plans to provide coverage for the cost of medically necessary hearing aids and cochlear implants for individuals who are 25 years of age or younger, replacing the previous age limit of 18 years. This change aims to expand access to essential hearing devices for a broader range of young individuals who may require them for medical reasons.

The new law will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply only to health benefit plans that are delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed on or after January 1, 2026. Plans that are delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed before this date will continue to be governed by the existing law prior to the amendment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Insurance Code 1367.253 (Insurance Code 1367)