WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1424

FILM TAX CREDIT-WOMEN IN STEM

104th Regular Session Introduced by Janet Yang Rohr

House Bill 1424 mandates Arkansas Medicaid and private insurers to cover treatments for severe obesity, including bariatric surgery and necessary care, improving patient access.

0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1424

Summary of House Bill 1424: Relating to Appropriations

Bill Number: HB 1424
Title: Relating to Appropriations
Status: Act 215, signed on June 25, 2025
Introduced: February 6, 2025
Subject: Appropriations, Budget, Reports

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1424 aims to mandate coverage for treatments related to severe obesity under the Arkansas Medicaid Program and private health benefit plans. The bill seeks to address the growing health concerns associated with severe obesity by ensuring that necessary medical treatments, including bariatric surgery, are covered by insurance providers.

Key Provisions

Coverage Mandates

  • Bariatric Surgery: The bill mandates coverage for specific types of bariatric surgery recognized by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, including:
    • Biliopancreatic bypass with duodenal switch
    • Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding
    • Roux-en-Y procedure
    • Sleeve gastrectomy
  • Preoperative and Postoperative Care: Coverage will also include necessary preoperative and postoperative care, which encompasses:
    • Psychological and nutritional counseling
    • Exercise therapy
    • Follow-up care

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for coverage, the following criteria must be met:
1. A healthcare provider must issue a written order detailing the patient's body mass index (BMI) and any associated comorbid conditions.
2. The patient must have participated in a weight loss program and received necessary medical and mental health evaluations.
3. Patients must receive preoperative education regarding the risks and benefits of surgery and adhere to a treatment plan.

Exclusions

  • The bill explicitly states that it does not require coverage for injectable drugs aimed at lowering glucose levels or any other weight-loss medications.

Implementation

  • The Arkansas Department of Human Services is tasked with applying for any necessary federal waivers or amendments to implement the provisions of this bill.

Affected Parties

  • Patients: Individuals suffering from severe obesity who require surgical intervention and related care.
  • Healthcare Providers: Medical professionals involved in the treatment and management of severe obesity.
  • Insurance Companies: Health benefit plans operating in Arkansas will be required to adjust their coverage policies to comply with this mandate.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 6, 2025: Bill introduced and passed the first reading.
  • April 1, 2025: Amendment No. 1 adopted, enhancing the bill's provisions.
  • April 10, 2025: The bill passed the Senate with amendments.
  • June 25, 2025: Signed into law as Act 215.

Conclusion

House Bill 1424 represents a significant step towards improving healthcare access for individuals with severe obesity in Arkansas. By mandating coverage for essential treatments, the bill aims to alleviate health risks associated with severe obesity and promote better health outcomes for affected individuals.

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

Sign in to ask a question.