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Bill

HB 1055

TO ESTABLISH COVERAGE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT TO SLOW THE PROGRESSION OF ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE OR OTHER DEMENTIA-RELATED DISEASE UNDER THE STATE AND PUBLIC SCHOOL LIFE AND HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Harlan Breaux and 5 co-sponsors

Arkansas would mandate state/public school health insurance coverage for Alzheimer's and dementia treatments to slow disease progression, died in Senate committee during 2025 session.

Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
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Bill Summary · HB 1055

Legislative bill overview

HB 1055 would require Arkansas's state and public school health insurance programs to cover diagnosis and treatment medications designed to slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease and other dementia-related conditions. The bill mandates insurance coverage for these disease-modifying treatments without specifying cost-sharing limitations or prior authorization requirements.

Why is this important

Alzheimer's and dementia affect approximately 85,000 Arkansans, with costs expected to rise significantly as the population ages. Coverage mandates can improve patient access to newer treatments but also directly impact insurance premiums and state budget allocations for public employees and their families.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Disease-modifying Alzheimer's drugs (like monoclonal antibodies) are extremely expensive ($25,000-$30,000+ annually), raising concerns about premium increases and overall healthcare costs for state budgets already under fiscal pressure
  • Clinical evidence debate: While some newer treatments show modest benefits in slowing cognitive decline, medical consensus on their effectiveness and appropriate patient populations remains evolving, creating questions about mandatory coverage scope
  • Prior authorization and safety: The bill's lack of specification on prior authorization requirements could limit physicians' ability to determine medical necessity or screen for contraindications like amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA)

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

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