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HB 1353

TO REGULATE A VISION BENEFIT MANAGER; TO AMEND THE VISION CARE PLAN ACT OF 2015; TO AMEND THE HEALTHCARE CONTRACTING SIMPLIFICATION ACT.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brandon Achor and 33 co-sponsors

Act 142 enhances regulations for vision benefit managers in Arkansas, ensuring fair treatment for enrollees and promoting transparency in vision care services and costs.

Notification that HB1353 is now Act 142
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1353

Summary of House Bill 1353 (Act 142)

Overview

House Bill 1353, now known as Act 142, was introduced in the Arkansas General Assembly on January 31, 2025. The bill aims to regulate vision benefit managers and amend existing laws related to vision care plans and healthcare contracting in Arkansas.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 1353 is to enhance the regulation of vision benefit managers (VBMs) and to ensure that individuals with vision care plans receive fair treatment regarding their benefits. The bill seeks to clarify the definitions and practices surrounding vision care, thereby protecting enrollees and ensuring compliance with established insurance regulations.

Key Provisions

Amendments to Existing Laws

  1. Vision Care Plan Act of 2015:

    • The bill amends Arkansas Code § 23-99-1002 to provide clearer definitions related to vision care, including terms like "covered materials," "covered services," and "vision benefit manager."
    • It establishes that a participating provider agreement cannot dictate fees for noncovered services or materials.

  2. Healthcare Contracting Simplification Act:

    • The bill prohibits contracts from reducing benefits due to the existence of other insurance, unless it complies with coordination of benefits rules set by the Insurance Commissioner.

Definitions and Regulations

  • Vision Benefit Manager: Defined as any entity that administers or provides vision benefit plans, ensuring that enrollees receive appropriate services and materials.
  • Prohibited Practices: The bill outlines practices that are not allowed, such as charging higher fees for noncovered services than the provider's normal rates.

Impact

Who is Affected?

  • Enrollees: Individuals participating in vision benefit plans will benefit from clearer regulations and protections against unfair practices.
  • Vision Care Providers: The bill establishes guidelines for how providers can charge for services and materials, promoting transparency and fairness.
  • Insurance Companies and VBMs: These entities will need to comply with the new regulations, which may require adjustments in their operational practices.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 31, 2025: Bill filed.
  • February 3, 2025: Read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Insurance & Commerce.
  • February 10, 2025: Passed in the House and transmitted to the Senate.
  • February 19, 2025: Passed in the Senate and returned to the House.
  • February 25, 2025: Notification that HB 1353 is now Act 142.

Conclusion

HB 1353 (Act 142) represents a significant step towards regulating vision benefit managers and ensuring that individuals with vision care plans are treated fairly. By amending existing laws and clarifying definitions, the bill aims to protect enrollees and promote transparency in the vision care industry in Arkansas.

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

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