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SB 1705

SB 1705 - This act requires health benefit plans issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2026, to provide coverage for certain preventative health care services without cost-sharing. Such services shall be consistent with the recommendations and guidelines of the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Health Resources and Services Administration, and related federal rules or guidance issued as of December 31, 2025. The Director of the Department of Commerce and Insurance shall, by rule, adopt regulations to require health benefit plans to provide coverage for preventative health care services without cost-sharing requirements consistent with the recommendations and guidance of such entities issued after December 31, 2025. Additionally, this act establishes the "Health Insurance Preventative Health Care Services Advisory Committee" within the Department, which shall consist of 5 members, three of whom will represent health care providers and two of whom will represent health carriers and health benefit plans. The advisory committee shall meet at least once a year to consider any updates or modifications to the preventative health care services described in this act and shall submit a report of any recommendations to the Department, the General Assembly, and the Governor by November first each year. This act is identical to HB 3452 (2026), and substantially similar to HB 3450 (2026). TAYLOR MIDDLETON

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Patty Lewis

Missouri bill requiring health insurers to cover preventative healthcare services without cost-sharing to improve access and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Second Read and Referred S Insurance and Banking Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 1705

Legislative bill overview

SB 1705 establishes new requirements for insurance coverage of preventative healthcare services in Missouri. The bill mandates that health insurance plans provide coverage for specific preventative care measures without cost-sharing barriers to patients.

Why is this important

Preventative care coverage directly affects healthcare affordability and access for Missouri residents, potentially reducing out-of-pocket costs for screenings and early interventions. Broader preventative care access can lower long-term healthcare costs by catching diseases earlier and reducing emergency room utilization.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance premium impacts: Insurers may argue that expanded preventative coverage requirements increase administrative costs and premium rates for consumers
  • Definition scope: Ambiguity about which services qualify as "preventative" could create disputes between insurers, providers, and patients over coverage obligations
  • Employer burden: Small businesses offering health plans may face higher costs if preventative service requirements lack sufficient cost controls or state subsidies

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

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