Summary of Bill S 1670: Requires Insurance Coverage for Lactation Support Services

Bill Number: S 1670

Title: Requires insurance coverage for lactation support services

Status: PRINT NUMBER 1670A

Introduced: January 13, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 1670 aims to enhance maternal and infant health by mandating that health insurance plans provide coverage for lactation support services. The intent of the bill is to improve access to breastfeeding support, which is crucial for the health and well-being of both mothers and their infants.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important provisions:

• Insurance Coverage Requirement: Health insurance policies must cover lactation support services, which include consultations with lactation specialists, breastfeeding education, and related support services.

• Definition of Services: The bill defines what constitutes lactation support services, ensuring clarity on the types of services that must be covered by insurance plans.

• Exemptions: The bill may outline specific exemptions or conditions under which coverage could be limited, although these details are not specified in the provided information.

Who Would Be Affected

• Mothers: Women who choose to breastfeed will benefit from increased access to professional lactation support, which can help address challenges associated with breastfeeding.

• Infants: Improved breastfeeding practices can lead to better health outcomes for infants, including reduced risks of infections and chronic conditions.

• Healthcare Providers: Lactation consultants and healthcare providers specializing in maternal and child health may see an increase in demand for their services as insurance coverage becomes more accessible.

Legislative Actions and Timeline

• January 13, 2025: The bill was introduced and referred to the Insurance Committee.

• June 6, 2025: The bill was amended and recommitted to the Insurance Committee, leading to the printing of version 1670A.

Related Bills

This bill is connected to several prior-session bills that address similar issues:

• S 8239 (prior-session)
• A 8653 (prior-session)
• S 7126 (prior-session)
• A 4677 (companion bill)

Conclusion

Bill S 1670 represents a significant step towards improving maternal and infant health by ensuring that lactation support services are covered by health insurance. By mandating this coverage, the bill seeks to remove financial barriers for mothers seeking assistance with breastfeeding, ultimately promoting healthier outcomes for families. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final provisions and impact of the bill.