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Bill

HB 774

INSURANCE/HEALTH: Provides relative to insurance coverage for hearing aids (EG1 INCREASE GF EX See Note)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Chad Boyer and 1 co-sponsor

Louisiana bill mandates health insurance coverage for hearing aids to improve accessibility for hearing-impaired residents, with projected state budget increases.

Read by title. Recommitted to the Committee on Finance.
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Bill Summary · HB 774

Legislative bill overview

HB 774 proposes to mandate insurance coverage for hearing aids in Louisiana. The bill would require health insurance policies to include benefits for hearing aid devices, potentially including fitting, adjustment, and replacement services. The fiscal note indicates this could increase General Fund expenditures, suggesting it may affect state insurance programs or Medicaid.

Why is this important

Hearing loss affects millions of Americans and hearing aids are often prohibitively expensive ($4,000-$6,000+ per pair), making this a significant accessibility and public health issue. Mandating insurance coverage could improve quality of life for patients with hearing impairment while potentially reducing downstream health complications associated with untreated hearing loss. However, expanded coverage requirements typically increase insurance premiums for all consumers, raising cost-benefit questions.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: Insurance mandates increase premiums for all policyholders; debate will center on whether societal benefit justifies individual cost increases
  • Coverage scope: Disagreement likely over what qualifies for coverage (all types of aids, specific brands, frequency of replacement, professional fees)
  • Impact on state budget: The GF expenditure increase suggests Medicaid or state employee insurance costs will rise, requiring funding decisions elsewhere

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

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