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HB 64

Health insurance; coverage for speech therapy as a treatment for stuttering.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nadarius Clark and 15 co-sponsors

Virginia bill requires health insurers to cover speech therapy for stuttering without separate cost-sharing, removing financial barriers to treatment access but increasing insurance costs.

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Bill Summary · HB 64

Legislative bill overview

HB 64 would require health insurance plans in Virginia to cover speech therapy as a treatment for stuttering. The bill mandates that insurers include this service in their coverage without imposing separate deductibles, copayments, or coinsurance requirements that differ from other covered services.

Why is this important

Stuttering affects approximately 1% of the adult population and 5% of children, potentially impacting educational and employment outcomes. Mandating coverage removes financial barriers that may prevent individuals—particularly children—from accessing speech therapy, which has evidence-based effectiveness in treating stuttering.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance cost impact: Requiring coverage without differential cost-sharing increases insurance premiums for all policyholders, even those who don't use the service, raising questions about cost allocation and affordability
  • Scope of mandated benefits: Expanding insurance mandates narrows insurer flexibility and could set precedent for requiring coverage of other therapies, potentially increasing regulatory burden and costs
  • Definition and medical necessity: The bill must clarify what qualifies as medically necessary speech therapy for stuttering versus elective treatment, which could create disputes between insurers and patients over coverage eligibility

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

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