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Bill

SR 121

Afterschool Day; recognize February 12, 2025

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bill Cowsert and 5 co-sponsors

SR 121 requests an auditor's assessment of the social and financial impacts of mandating health insurance coverage for hearing aids, aiming to improve access for those in need.

Senate Read and Adopted
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Bill Summary · SR 121

Summary of SR 121: Requesting the Auditor to Assess the Social and Financial Effects of Mandating Health Insurance Coverage for Hearing Aids

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SR 121
Title: Requesting the Auditor to Assess the Social and Financial Effects of Mandating Health Insurance Coverage for Hearing Aids
Status: Referred to Health and Human Services (HHS) and Ways and Means (WAM)
Introduced Date: March 07, 2025
Classification: Resolution
Subject: Auditor to Assess Effects, Hearing Aids

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SR 121 is to request a comprehensive assessment by the state auditor regarding the potential social and financial implications of requiring health insurance plans to cover hearing aids. The resolution aims to gather data and insights that could inform future legislative decisions about mandating such coverage.

Key Provisions

  • Assessment Request: The resolution calls for the state auditor to conduct a thorough evaluation of the impacts of mandating health insurance coverage for hearing aids.
  • Focus Areas: The assessment will likely include:
    • Financial Implications: Analyzing the cost to insurance providers and potential changes in premiums for consumers.
    • Social Effects: Evaluating how such a mandate could affect access to hearing aids for individuals with hearing impairments, including potential improvements in quality of life and communication abilities.

Affected Parties

  • Individuals with Hearing Impairments: The resolution directly impacts those who require hearing aids, as mandated coverage could improve access and affordability.
  • Health Insurance Providers: Insurance companies would be affected by any changes in coverage requirements, which could influence their operational costs and pricing structures.
  • Healthcare System: The broader healthcare system may experience shifts in service demand and resource allocation as a result of increased access to hearing aids.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Actions:
    • March 7, 2025: The resolution was offered in the legislative assembly.
    • March 12, 2025: It was referred to the committees on Health and Human Services (HHS) and Ways and Means (WAM) for further consideration.

Related Legislation

  • SCR 151: This is a companion resolution that may address similar issues or provide additional context regarding the coverage of hearing aids.

Conclusion

SR 121 serves as a critical step towards understanding the implications of mandating health insurance coverage for hearing aids. By requesting an assessment from the auditor, the resolution seeks to ensure that any future legislative actions are informed by comprehensive data on both social and financial effects, ultimately aiming to enhance access to essential hearing health services.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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