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Bill

HB 607

Provide for the hearing aid coverage act

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Paul Tuss

Montana bill mandating health insurance coverage of hearing aids was vetoed by the Governor after passing both legislative chambers.

(H) Vetoed by Governor
#healthcareservices(seealso:health) #insurance
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Bill Summary · HB 607

Legislative bill overview

HB 607, the Hearing Aid Coverage Act, requires health insurance plans in Montana to cover hearing aids and related services. The bill establishes mandates for coverage parameters, including frequency of replacement and types of devices covered under both private and public insurance programs.

Why is this important

Hearing loss affects millions of Americans and hearing aids are critical medical devices that can significantly improve quality of life, workplace productivity, and social engagement. However, high out-of-pocket costs often prevent people from obtaining necessary hearing aids, making insurance coverage mandates a key policy tool to improve access.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Insurance mandates typically increase premiums for all enrollees; insurers and employer groups may argue this shifts costs unfairly
  • Scope of coverage: Disagreement over what devices qualify, replacement frequency, and whether coverage includes all types of hearing aids or only basic models
  • Federal vs. state authority: Tensions between state insurance regulation and federal employee benefits law (ERISA) regarding self-insured employer plans

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

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