New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB634

Introduced
1/16/25  
Refer
1/16/25  
Report Pass
2/26/25  
Report Pass
2/26/25  
Engrossed
3/12/25  

Caption

Repealing the New Hampshire council on autism spectrum disorders.

Impact

If passed, HB634 will directly influence the existing laws governing healthcare insurance and patient rights. It is expected to increase the scope of coverage that individuals can receive under their health plans, thereby promoting access to necessary medical services. Proponents argue that this will lead to better health outcomes for residents, reduce the incidence of medical bankruptcy due to high costs, and ensure that essential services are available to all individuals, particularly those in vulnerable positions.

Summary

House Bill 634 introduces significant changes to the healthcare insurance landscape by mandating coverage for certain medical services and procedures. This bill aims to enhance access to essential healthcare services by requiring insurance providers to cover specific treatments that were previously often excluded or limited. The overarching intent is to alleviate the financial burden on patients while ensuring that they receive comprehensive medical care without facing excessive out-of-pocket costs.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB634 is largely favorable among healthcare advocates and patient rights groups. Supporters view it as a necessary improvement to the healthcare system that prioritizes patient needs and financial protections. Conversely, there are concerns raised by some insurance providers, who argue that the mandates could lead to increased insurance premiums, potentially driving costs up for consumers in the long run. The debate reveals deep divisions between those prioritizing patient access and those focusing on the economic implications for the insurance market.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions surrounding HB634 include the financial viability of such mandates and the potential ramifications on insurance premiums. Opponents contend that expanding coverage could strain insurance companies and result in higher costs for consumers. They also voice concerns about the unintended consequences of increased government interference in the insurance market, fearing it might lead to reduced competition. Proponents counter that without such mandates, insurance companies might neglect essential services, thereby disadvantaging patients.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

NH HB140

Establishing a voluntary "blue envelope" program for drivers with autism spectrum disorders and trauma and stressor-related disorders.

NH HCR1

Calling for policymakers locally and nationally to fully consider all relevant information and factors pertaining to climate change before pursuing courses of action that could adversely affect any economy or environment.

NH HB241

Relative to treatment alternatives to opioids.

NV AB6

Establishes the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Treatment Assistance Program within the Aging and Disability Services Division of the Department of Health and Human Services. (BDR 38-287)

NV SB257

Revises provisions relating to autism. (BDR 38-106)

IA HF8

A bill for an act relating to student access to broad-spectrum cannabidiol products from school nurses during the school day.

TX SB545

Relating to information regarding autism spectrum disorders.

NH SB59

Establishing a recruitment incentive program within the community college system for public safety communicators and dispatchers and making an appropriation therefor.