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HB 1365

Repeal Medicaid Reimbursement for Equine Therapy

2026 Regular Session

HB 1365 eliminates Colorado Medicaid reimbursement for equine therapy, affecting low-income patients' access to horse-assisted treatment while reducing state healthcare spending.

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Bill Summary · HB 1365

Legislative bill overview

HB 1365 would eliminate Medicaid reimbursement coverage for equine therapy services in Colorado. This means the state's Medicaid program would no longer pay for therapeutic horseback riding or horse-assisted interventions as a covered medical benefit.

Why is this important

Medicaid covers roughly 1.5 million Colorado residents, including low-income individuals and families who may not afford equine therapy out-of-pocket. Removing this coverage could eliminate access to a treatment modality some patients use for physical rehabilitation, mental health, or developmental disabilities, while potentially saving the state Medicaid budget funds.

Potential points of contention

  • Evidence base concerns: Supporters may argue equine therapy lacks robust clinical evidence compared to standard therapies, while opponents may cite specific studies showing benefits for PTSD, autism, or physical rehabilitation
  • Access equity: Removing coverage disproportionately affects low-income beneficiaries who cannot pay privately, raising questions about who bears the burden of cost-cutting
  • Provider impact: Speech therapists, occupational therapists, and equine specialists who bill Medicaid for these services would lose reimbursement, potentially closing programs or shifting costs to patients

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

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