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Bill

Bill

HF 95

Coverage for certain diagnostic and screening colorectal cancer tests required, early colorectal cancer screening required, and education program developed.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Clardy and 2 co-sponsors

Expands insurance coverage and promotes early colorectal cancer screening, with an education program to boost uptake and early detection.

Author added Pursell
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HF 95

Summary: HF 95 (Minnesota, 2025-2026) — Coverage for diagnostic and screening colorectal cancer tests; early screening requirement; education program

Purpose and intent

HF 95 proposes measures to improve colorectal cancer detection and prevention by:
- Ensuring coverage for specific diagnostic and screening colorectal cancer tests
- Requiring early colorectal cancer screening
- Developing an education program to promote awareness and uptake of screening

The overarching goal is to enhance early detection, reduce mortality from colorectal cancer, and improve access to recommended testing.

Key provisions and changes (highlights)

  • Coverage for diagnostic and screening tests

    • Mandates or clarifies insurance coverage for certain colorectal cancer diagnostic tests and screening tests. The bill specifies tests to be covered, aiming to remove financial barriers that discourage individuals from undergoing testing.
    • Coverage details (e.g., cost-sharing, age groups, or plan requirements) would be outlined in the bill's text; the summary captures the intent to guarantee access to essential colorectal cancer testing.
  • Early colorectal cancer screening requirement

    • Establishes a requirement or mandate to promote or provide early colorectal cancer screening. This could involve setting standards for when screening should occur (e.g., starting age, intervals) and ensuring programmatic support or incentives for early detection.
  • Education program development

    • Directs the creation of an education program related to colorectal cancer screening. The program would likely address:
    • Importance of screening and early detection
    • Available tests and how to access them
    • Guidance on interpreting test results and follow-up steps
    • Outreach to populations with historically lower screening rates

Who is affected

  • Individuals eligible for colorectal cancer screening and diagnostic testing would benefit from expanded coverage and reduced cost barriers.
  • Health insurance plans and issuers would be impacted if the bill imposes requirements on coverage for specific tests, possibly affecting plan design and cost-sharing structures.
  • Healthcare providers and systems may see increased demand for screening services and a need to coordinate patient education and referrals.
  • Public health and education entities would be involved in developing and implementing the education program.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced and referred: HF 95 was introduced and referred to the Health Finance and Policy committee (as of the 2025-02-10 action), indicating initial steps in the legislative process.
  • Author and sponsors: The bill lists Pursell as the author, with co-sponsors Mary Clardy, Bianca Virnig, and Kristi Pursell, signaling bipartisan or cross-aisle support considerations.
  • Next steps (typical): After committee review, the bill would proceed to potential amendments, floor votes, and, if passed, reconciliation with the Senate version and eventual signing by the governor.

Potential impact

  • Access and equity: If enacted, increased coverage could reduce out-of-pocket costs, potentially widening access for underserved populations.
  • Public health outcomes: Greater screening rates and clearer guidance may lead to earlier detection of colorectal cancer, improving treatment outcomes and survival.
  • Costs: Insurance coverage mandates may affect premiums or plan costs; the bill’s text would specify any cost-sharing limits or exemptions.

If you’d like, I can tailor this summary to include specific provisions (e.g., exact tests covered, ages, screening intervals, funding sources, or dates) once the bill’s full text is available.

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

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