New York Assembly Bill A00771

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 1/8/25

Caption

Requires insurance coverage for early egg and peanut allergen introduction dietary supplements for infants at no cost.

Impact

If enacted, A00771 will significantly alter the landscape of health insurance coverage related to infant dietary health by expanding the obligations of insurers to include specialty dietary supplements aimed at allergy prevention. This change implies that all individual and group health insurance policies issued or renewed in the state will need to include such benefits. As a result, parents will no longer bear the financial burden for these preventive measures, potentially leading to a reduction in the prevalence of allergy-related hospitalizations and healthcare costs related to food allergies in children.

Summary

Bill A00771 seeks to amend the insurance law and social services law in New York by requiring health insurers to cover early egg and peanut allergen introduction dietary supplements for infants at no cost to parents. The bill recognizes the need for dietary interventions in reducing the risk of food allergies among infants, a public health concern that has been rising in recent years. By mandating coverage for these specific dietary supplements, the legislation aims to provide families with necessary tools to foster safer dietary practices from an early age.

Contention

While proponents of A00771 argue that this measure will enhance public health by preventing food allergies, there are potential concerns from insurers regarding the financial implications of mandated coverage for dietary supplements. Insurers may argue that such requirements could lead to higher premiums for all policyholders. Moreover, there could be resistance from some stakeholders questioning the necessity and effectiveness of such interventions, suggesting that parents should consult healthcare practitioners rather than relying on legislative mandates for dietary practices.