If enacted, SB 600 will amend several healthcare-related sections within Massachusetts General Laws. The legislation mandates that health insurance plans covering such employees provide immediate access to a multi-user breast pump following the mother's hospital discharge and continue to cover rental costs until the infant is discharged or feeding directly. It also includes provisions for various necessary accessories and replacement parts to maintain the pump's functionality, promoting extended breastfeeding opportunities.
Summary
Senate Bill No. 600, known as 'An Act improving access to breast pumps', aims to enhance the availability and insurance coverage of multi-user breast pumps for mothers of newborns with specific health conditions. The bill defines a 'multi-user breast pump' as a durable device capable of supporting milk supply while being safe for use by multiple individuals. It seeks to ensure that eligible employees of the Commonwealth receive rental coverage for these pumps if their newborns are in intensive care or have feeding difficulties due to health anomalies.
Contention
Debate surrounding SB 600 focuses on the implications of expanding insurance mandates and access to breast pumps. Proponents argue that the bill is a critical step toward improving health outcomes for vulnerable newborns and their mothers. They highlight the importance of making breastfeeding more attainable for mothers whose infants cannot feed directly. Conversely, some critics express concerns regarding the additional financial burden that could arise for insurance providers and the potential for increased costs to the state, arguing that the bill could further complicate the healthcare landscape.