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Bill

SB 271

An Act amending the act of May 17, 1921 (P.L.682, No.284), known as The Insurance Company Law of 1921, in casualty insurance, providing for coverage for anti-obesity treatments; and abrogating a regulation.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Amanda Cappelletti and 8 co-sponsors

Requires Pennsylvania casualty insurers to cover anti-obesity treatments, expanding insurance mandates for weight-management medical interventions.

Referred to Banking & Insurance
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 271

Legislative bill overview

SB 271 would amend Pennsylvania's Insurance Company Law of 1921 to require casualty insurance policies to cover anti-obesity treatments. The bill also abrogates a regulation, likely one that previously excluded or limited such coverage from insurance requirements.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects insurance coverage requirements for weight-management medical interventions, potentially making treatments like medications, surgeries, or behavioral programs more accessible to Pennsylvania residents by requiring insurers to fund them. The practical impact depends on how "anti-obesity treatments" is defined and which treatments qualify, as this could significantly increase insurance claims costs and premiums.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and scope: The bill doesn't specify which treatments qualify as "anti-obesity treatments" (e.g., GLP-1 drugs, bariatric surgery, nutritional counseling), creating ambiguity about coverage requirements and potential for disputes
  • Cost and premium impact: Mandating coverage for additional treatments typically increases insurer costs, which may be passed to consumers through higher premiums, affecting those who don't use these services
  • Medical necessity standards: Questions about whether insurers can require prior authorization, medical necessity documentation, or other safeguards, versus blanket coverage requirements

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

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