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Bill

HB 467

INSURANCE/HEALTH: Requires health insurance coverage for amino acid-based elemental formulas (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Regina Barrow and 7 co-sponsors

Louisiana requires health insurers to cover amino acid-based elemental formulas for patients with severe allergies and digestive disorders, removing categorical coverage denials.

Signed by the Governor. Becomes Act No. 367.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 467

Legislative bill overview

HB 467 mandates that health insurance plans in Louisiana cover amino acid-based elemental formulas, which are specialized medical foods used primarily for patients with severe allergies, malabsorption disorders, and other digestive conditions. The bill became law (Act No. 367) in June 2025 after gubernatorial approval.

Why is this important

Amino acid-based elemental formulas are often the only viable nutrition source for patients with multiple food allergies or conditions like eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders, but they are expensive (often $200-500+ per month) and frequently denied coverage as "not medically necessary." This mandate ensures insurance cannot categorically exclude these formulas, improving access for vulnerable populations including infants and children with severe allergies.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost impact: Insurance carriers will face increased claims expenses, potentially leading to higher premiums for all policyholders
  • Medical necessity definition: Ambiguity about which patients qualify and what quantity/duration insurers must cover could create disputes between patients and insurers
  • Coverage gaps: The mandate applies only to health insurance plans; Medicaid coverage and out-of-pocket costs for uninsured patients remain unaddressed

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

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