Wisconsin Senate Bill SB341

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/21/23
• Refer: 6/21/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Coverage of maternity and newborn care under health insurance policies and plans and granting rule-making authority.

Impact

The enactment of SB341 will require a significant adjustment in health insurance policies offered in Wisconsin. Insurers will need to enhance their offerings in accordance with the specifications mandated by the state, particularly surrounding prenatal and postnatal care. This law is expected to promote better health outcomes for mothers and infants by ensuring that essential maternity and newborn care services are adequately covered, thereby addressing prior gaps in service and ensuring broader access to necessary medical care.

Summary

Senate Bill 341 mandates that specific health insurance policies and self-insured health plans provide coverage for essential health benefits relating to maternity and newborn care. The bill outlines the requirements that the commissioner of insurance must follow in determining the scope of maternity and newborn care benefits, ensuring coverage is comprehensive and equitable. It also stipulates that any coverage must limit cost-sharing to avoid discrimination based on disability or expected lifespan, thus enhancing accessibility for expectant mothers and their newborns.

Contention

While proponents of SB341 argue that the bill will enhance maternal health outcomes and remove financial barriers for families, opponents may raise concerns about the implications of health insurance mandates on premiums and the financial burden on insurers. Additionally, some entities may argue that added regulations could complicate the existing insurance landscape. This balance between ensuring comprehensive care and managing costs remains a point of contention in discussions surrounding the bill.