The original instrument was prepared by Brandi Cannon. The following digest, which
does not constitute a part of the legislative instrument, was prepared by Christine
Arbo Peck.
DIGEST
SB 426 Reengrossed 2020 Regular Session Barrow
Proposed law prohibits a health coverage plan delivered or issued for delivery in this state from
denying coverage for COVID-19 diagnostic and antibody testing and antiviral drugs when ordered
by a physician for the purpose of making clinical decisions or treating a patient suspected of having
COVID-19.
Proposed law requires any health coverage plan delivered or issued for delivery in this state to
include coverage for COVID-19 diagnostic and antibody testing and antiviral drugs.
Proposed law prohibits the application of annual deductibles, coinsurance, copayment, or any other
out-of-pocket or cost-sharing expense provisions until December 31, 2022. After December 31,
2022, these services may be subject to these cost-sharing requirements.
Proposed law defines "COVID-19", "COVID-19 diagnostic test", "COVID-19 antibody test",
"COVID-19 antiviral drug or agent", and "health coverage plan".
Proposed law is not applicable to a plan providing coverage for excepted benefits, limited benefit
health insurance plans, high deductible health plans authorized under federal law, and short-term
policies that have a term of less than twelve months.
Effective upon signature of the governor or lapse of time for gubernatorial action.
(Adds R.S. 22:1057)
Summary of Amendments Adopted by Senate
Committee Amendments Proposed by Senate Committee on Insurance to the original bill
1. Requires coverage of antibody tests and antiviral drugs.
Summary of Amendments Adopted by Senate
Senate Floor Amendments to engrossed bill
1. Provides that COVID-19 diagnostic and antibody testing and antiviral drugs are
covered when ordered by a physician for the purpose of making clinical decisions or
treating a patient suspected of having COVID-19. 2. Provides December 31, 2022, is the termination of suspension of annual deductibles,
coinsurance, copayment, or any other out-of-pocket or cost-sharing expense relative
to COVID-19. After December 31, 2022, these services may be subject to
cost-sharing requirements.
3. Provides that high deductible health plans authorized under federal law are exempt
from COVID-19 coverage requirements.