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Bill

A 8004

Prohibits approved providers of child health insurance coverage from discriminating against health care providers not participating in the insurer's network

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Otis and 2 co-sponsors

Bill A 8004 ensures child health insurance providers can't discriminate against non-network healthcare providers, expanding access to care for families and improving children's health outcomes.

SUBSTITUTED BY S5812
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 8004

Summary of Bill A 8004

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 8004
  • Title: Prohibits approved providers of child health insurance coverage from discriminating against health care providers not participating in the insurer's network
  • Status: Substituted by S5812
  • Introduced: April 21, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill A 8004 is to ensure that health care providers who are not part of an insurer's network are not discriminated against by approved providers of child health insurance coverage. This legislation aims to promote fair access to health care services for children by allowing families to seek care from a wider range of providers, regardless of network participation.

Key Provisions

  • Non-Discrimination Clause: The bill prohibits child health insurance providers from denying coverage or reimbursement to health care providers solely based on their non-participation in the insurer's network.
  • Access to Care: By removing barriers for non-network providers, the bill seeks to enhance access to necessary health care services for children, potentially improving health outcomes.

Impact

  • Health Care Providers: The bill would directly affect health care providers who are currently excluded from insurer networks, allowing them to provide services to children covered under these insurance plans without facing discrimination.
  • Families and Children: Families seeking child health insurance coverage would benefit from a broader selection of health care providers, which may lead to better health care choices and outcomes for their children.

Legislative Timeline

  • April 21, 2025: Bill A 8004 was introduced and referred to the Health Committee.
  • May 19, 2025: The bill was reported and referred to the Rules Committee.
  • May 21, 2025: The bill was reported again and ordered to third reading, but was subsequently substituted by S5812.

Related Bills

  • A 2918 (prior-session)
  • A 4045 (prior-session)
  • A 2550 (prior-session)
  • A 5756 (prior-session)
  • A 6014 (prior-session)
  • A 3866 (prior-session)
  • A 3654 (prior-session)
  • A 1523 (prior-session)
  • A 9541 (prior-session)
  • S 5812 (companion bill)

Conclusion

Bill A 8004 represents an important step towards ensuring equitable access to health care for children by prohibiting discrimination against non-network providers. While it has been substituted by S5812, the intent and provisions of the bill highlight ongoing efforts to improve child health insurance coverage and access to necessary medical services.

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

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