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H 521

An act relating to health insurance coverage for donated human breast milk

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Daisy Berbeco and 2 co-sponsors

Vermont bill requiring health insurance plans to cover donated human breast milk for eligible infants to improve access and reduce family costs.

Read first time and referred to the Committee on Health Care
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Bill Summary · H 521

Legislative bill overview

H 521 would require health insurance plans in Vermont to cover donated human breast milk for eligible infants. The bill specifically mandates insurance coverage for this medical product, treating it similarly to other covered medical treatments and nutritional interventions for newborns and infants.

Why is this important

Donor breast milk can be medically necessary for premature infants, immunocompromised newborns, and babies whose mothers cannot produce milk due to health conditions. Without insurance coverage, families may face significant out-of-pocket costs (donor milk can cost $3-4 per ounce), potentially limiting access to this therapeutic option for lower-income families and creating health equity concerns.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Insurance companies may argue this expands covered benefits, potentially increasing premiums for all policyholders; the actual cost impact depends on utilization rates and whether existing coverage gaps are widespread
  • Medical necessity standards: Determining which infants qualify for coverage and through which providers (milk banks vs. informal donation) could create administrative complexity and disagreements about clinical appropriateness
  • Alternative coverage approaches: Debate over whether this should be addressed through Medicaid expansion, state subsidy programs, or nonprofit milk bank support rather than private insurance mandates

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

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