New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB1660

Introduced
12/15/23  
Refer
12/15/23  
Engrossed
3/13/24  
Refer
3/13/24  
Report Pass
5/1/24  

Caption

Relative to coverage of certain procedures for minor children under the states Medicaid program.

Impact

The passage of HB1660 is expected to limit the medical options available to minors seeking gender reassignment treatment under the Medicaid program. By prohibiting coverage for such procedures, the bill may push families towards alternative financing methods or discourage them from pursuing necessary healthcare altogether. The fiscal note associated with the bill indicates that while the immediate impact on state revenue is not defined, there could be a range of effects, including potential savings or increased expenditures due to shifts in healthcare service utilization.

Summary

House Bill 1660 (HB1660) aims to amend the state's Medicaid program by explicitly excluding coverage for gender reassignment procedures for individuals under the age of 18. This legislative move reflects ongoing debates surrounding healthcare provisions for minors, particularly in relation to gender identity and medical treatments. The bill was sponsored by multiple representatives and senators, indicating a political coalition in support of restricting Medicaid coverage for these specific procedures.

Contention

The proposal has likely generated contention among various stakeholders, particularly between those advocating for the rights of minors seeking gender-affirming care and those who support the restrictions proposed by the bill. Proponents may argue that the bill protects minors from making irreversible decisions regarding their gender identity at an early age, while opponents could claim that it undermines the ability of families to access necessary healthcare and support for their children's mental and emotional health. This conflict encapsulates broader societal debates about gender identity, parental rights, and healthcare access.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB282

Relative to including certain children and pregnant women in Medicaid and the children's health insurance program.

NH HB619

Prohibiting gender transition procedures for minors, relative to sex and gender in public schools, and relative to the definition of conversion therapy.

NH SB176

Relative to insurance coverage for pelvic floor therapy.

NH HB406

Relative to parental access to children's medical records.

NH SB177

To create orthotics and prosthetics parity and ensure coverage of orthotics and prosthetics for the performance of physical activities for children 18 years of age and younger.

NH HB414

Relative to health insurance coverage for preventative PFAS care.

NH HB455

Relative to creating a new state cause of action and special findings for abused, neglected, and abandoned children seeking special immigrant juvenile status under federal law.

NH HB603

Relative to education service providers under the education freedom accounts program.

NH HB397

Relative to the prohibition of the possession of hypodermic needles by minors.

NH HB497

Relative to the confidentiality of records within the division of children, youth, and families.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.