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Bill

HB 1333

TO MANDATE COVERAGE FOR BREASTFEEDING AND LACTATION CONSULTANT SERVICES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Bentley and 14 co-sponsors

Arkansas law now requires health insurers to cover breastfeeding support and lactation consultant services without cost-sharing to increase maternal and infant health access.

Notification that HB1333 is now Act 627
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1333

Legislative bill overview

HB 1333 requires health insurance plans in Arkansas to cover breastfeeding support services and lactation consultant care. The bill mandates that insurers include these services as covered benefits without cost-sharing requirements (no copays or deductibles). This applies to both individual and group health plans operating in the state.

Why is this important

Lactation support is associated with higher breastfeeding initiation and continuation rates, which have documented health benefits for both infants and mothers. By removing financial barriers to lactation services, the law aims to increase access to professional breastfeeding support, particularly for lower-income populations who might otherwise forgo these services due to cost.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance premium increases: Mandated coverage requirements typically increase overall insurance costs, which may be passed to employers and individual policyholders through higher premiums
  • Definition ambiguity: The scope of covered services and number of covered consultant visits may be unclear, potentially leading to disputes between insurers and consumers over what qualifies for coverage
  • Market impact on small businesses: Small employers may face disproportionate cost increases from new mandates compared to large employers with broader risk pools

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

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