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Bill

Bill

A 7321

Requires health insurers to provide coverage for speech therapy for stuttering

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Sam Berger and 16 co-sponsors

Bill A 7321 mandates health insurers to cover speech therapy for stuttering, improving access to treatment for individuals and enhancing their communication skills.

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Bill Summary · A 7321

Summary of Bill A 7321: Coverage for Speech Therapy for Stuttering

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 7321
  • Title: Requires health insurers to provide coverage for speech therapy for stuttering
  • Status: Tabled
  • Introduced On: March 25, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill A 7321 is to mandate that health insurance providers cover speech therapy specifically for individuals who stutter. The bill aims to improve access to necessary therapeutic services for those affected by stuttering, thereby enhancing their communication skills and overall quality of life.

Key Provisions

  • Insurance Coverage Requirement: The bill stipulates that health insurers must include speech therapy for stuttering in their coverage plans. This provision is intended to ensure that individuals seeking treatment for stuttering can receive necessary services without facing prohibitive out-of-pocket costs.

  • Scope of Services: While the bill does not detail specific types of speech therapy, it implies that a range of therapeutic options should be available to patients, allowing for personalized treatment plans.

Affected Parties

  • Individuals Who Stutter: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation would be individuals diagnosed with stuttering, including children and adults, who require speech therapy to manage their condition effectively.

  • Health Insurers: Insurance companies would be required to adjust their coverage policies to comply with the new mandate, potentially impacting their operational procedures and cost structures.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 25, 2025: Bill A 7321 was introduced and referred to the Insurance Committee.
  • May 7, 2025: The bill was amended and recommitted to the Insurance Committee.
  • May 13, 2025: The bill was reported out of committee.
  • May 15, 2025: Advanced to third reading.
  • June 6, 2025: Passed in both the Assembly and Senate, and subsequently delivered to the Governor.
  • October 9, 2025: Delivered to the Governor for approval.
  • October 16, 2025: The bill was vetoed by the Governor.
  • October 17, 2025: The bill was tabled.

Related Legislation

  • S 3654: This bill serves as a companion to A 7321, indicating that similar provisions may be considered in the Senate.

Conclusion

Bill A 7321 represents an effort to enhance healthcare access for individuals who stutter by requiring insurance coverage for speech therapy. Despite its initial passage through legislative bodies, the bill was ultimately vetoed and tabled, leaving its future uncertain. The implications of this legislation highlight the ongoing discussions surrounding healthcare coverage for specialized therapies.

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

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