Arizona 2023 Regular Session

Arizona Senate Bill SB1494

Caption

Health insurance; coverage; medical marijuana

Impact

The enactment of SB1494 would have a significant impact on state health insurance laws. By requiring insurers to cover medical marijuana, it aligns state law with the ongoing evolution of marijuana legislation at the state and federal levels. The inclusion of medical marijuana as a covered benefit could reduce financial barriers for patients and provide them with greater access to necessary treatments. However, it may also create challenges for insurers in terms of adjusting their policies and practices in compliance with the new requirements, potentially resulting in increased premiums or altered benefit structures.

Summary

SB1494, introduced by Senator Mendez, amends various sections of the Arizona Revised Statutes to mandate coverage for medical marijuana by different health insurance providers. The bill specifies that starting January 1, 2025, hospital service corporations, medical service corporations, health care service organizations, disability insurers, and group or blanket disability insurers must provide insurance coverage that includes the costs associated with medical marijuana as well as the registry identification cards needed for qualifying patients. This legislative change aims to support patients who rely on medical marijuana for their health needs by making it more financially accessible through insurance.

Contention

The bill's introduction may lead to debate around the implications of covering a substance that, while legalized for medical purposes, still faces scrutiny and legal challenges in various jurisdictions. Proponents argue that this coverage is essential for patient care and well-being, while opponents might raise concerns about the broader legal and ethical implications of insurance coverage for substances associated with recreational use. Policymakers will need to address these challenges to ensure effective implementation and continued support for the bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AZ HB2649

Cancer screening; coverage; gene mutation

AZ HB2411

Insurance; cost sharing; breast examinations

AZ HB2256

Contraception; coinsurance

AZ HB2112

Insurance coverage; hearing aids; children

AZ HB2784

Marijuana; warnings; mental health

AZ HB2247

Marijuana regulatory board; licensing qualifications

AZ SB1410

Marijuana; licensing; delivery

AZ HB2770

Marijuana; interstate agreements; delivery

AZ SB1438

Health insurance coverage; insulin

AZ HB2504

Forced organ harvesting; insurance; prohibition

Similar Bills

AZ SB1715

Hemp-derived manufactured impairing cannabinoids

AZ HB2050

Licensing; marijuana establishments

OR SB176

Relating to marijuana for medical use; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB3214

Relating to marijuana for medical use; prescribing an effective date.

AZ HB2828

Department of marijuana regulation

OR HB3567

Relating to marijuana for medical use; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB3425

Relating to certified registered nurse anesthetists; and prescribing an effective date.

AZ HB2261

Medical marijuana; fee; exemption; veterans