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SD 1895

An Act to protect essential health services

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Bruce Tarr

SD 1895 - An Act to Protect Essential Health Services OverviewBill Number: SD 1895 Title: An Act to Protect Essential Health Services Status: House concurred Introduced: Februar

House concurred
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Bill Summary · SD 1895

SD 1895 - An Act to Protect Essential Health Services

Overview

Bill Number: SD 1895
Title: An Act to Protect Essential Health Services
Status: House concurred
Introduced: February 27, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of this bill is to ensure access to a defined set of essential health services for all residents, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. The legislation aims to address gaps in coverage and affordability that have left many people unable to obtain necessary medical care.

Key Provisions

  • Establishes a state-run "Essential Health Services" program to provide coverage for a comprehensive package of preventive, primary, and specialty care services
  • Requires all insurance plans operating in the state, including employer-sponsored and individual market plans, to cover the essential services package with no out-of-pocket costs for patients
  • Expands Medicaid eligibility to cover all residents with incomes up to 200% of the federal poverty level, eliminating the coverage gap
  • Caps out-of-pocket costs for essential services at $1,000 per individual and $2,000 per family per year
  • Empowers the state health department to regularly review and update the essential services package based on evolving medical best practices

Affected Parties and Impacts

This bill would have far-reaching impacts on the state's healthcare system and residents:

  • Uninsured and underinsured individuals would gain access to a comprehensive set of essential health services at no personal cost
  • Employers and individuals purchasing private insurance would see their premiums increase slightly to cover the new essential services mandate, but out-of-pocket costs would be capped
  • Healthcare providers would experience increased patient volume and utilization, potentially straining capacity in some areas
  • State Medicaid program would see a significant expansion in enrollment and costs, requiring additional state funding

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

The bill has already passed the state Senate and is currently under consideration in the House. If the House concurs, as expected, the bill will be sent to the Governor for signature into law. The new Essential Health Services program and insurance requirements would take effect on January 1, 2026, giving the state time to establish the necessary infrastructure and processes.

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

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