Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2085

Introduced
1/12/24  

Caption

Increases insurance coverage for hearing aids from one thousand five hundred dollars to two thousand dollars, per ear, every three years for all people regardless of age.

Note

Overall, S2085 represents a legislative effort to expand hearing aid accessibility through advances in insurance policy. The ensuing discussions among lawmakers and stakeholders will be vital in shaping the final provisions of the bill, addressing both its potential benefits and the challenges anticipated in its implementation.

Impact

If passed, this bill will significantly affect state insurance regulations regarding hearing aids. It extends coverage not only for children and minors but also for adults, thereby promoting equity in healthcare access. The change is anticipated to alleviate the financial burden that many face concerning hearing device expenses. Insurance providers will have to adjust their plans starting from the specified effective date, offering increased benefits without any qualifications based on age.

Summary

Bill S2085, introduced in January 2024, proposes an increase in insurance coverage for hearing aids from $1,500 to $2,000 per ear, available every three years for individuals regardless of age. The bill aims to amend existing laws related to accident and sickness insurance policies and is expected to take effect from January 1, 2025. The adjustments are designed to enhance access to hearing aids, which are essential for individuals with hearing impairments.

Contention

Some noted points of contention may arise from the specifics of the implementation, particularly regarding which providers of hearing aids will be eligible under the amended insurance policies. The bill allows insurers discretion in selecting hearing aid providers, which raises concerns about potential inequities in the types of devices covered. Advocates for hearing accessibility worry that this might limit consumer choice and could impact the quality of care received.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0567

Accident And Sickness Insurance Policies

RI H6386

Authorizing The Stone Bridge Fire District To Issue General Obligation Bonds And/or Notes In An Amount Not To Exceed One Million Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars

RI S0982

Authorizing The Stone Bridge Fire District To Issue General Obligation Bonds And/or Notes In An Amount Not To Exceed One Million Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars

RI H5426

Individual Health Insurance Coverage

RI S0023

Individual Health Insurance Coverage

RI S0563

Insurance Coverage For Prevention Of Hiv Infection

RI H5283

Accident And Sickness Insurance Policies -- Mammograms And Pap Smears -- Coverage Mandated

RI S1134

- Accident And Sickness Insurance Policies -- Mammograms And Pap Smears -- Coverage Mandated

RI H6218

Insurance Coverage For Mental Illness And Substance Abuse

RI H5281

Accident And Sickness Insurance Policies

Similar Bills

CA SB635

Health care coverage: hearing aids.

RI S0567

Accident And Sickness Insurance Policies

RI S0120

Increases insurance coverage for hearing aids from one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500) to one thousand seven hundred fifty dollars ($1,750), per ear, for all people regardless of age effective January 1, 2026.

RI H5218

Increases insurance coverage for hearing aids from one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500) to one thousand seven hundred fifty dollars ($1,750), per ear, for all people regardless of age effective January 1, 2026.

RI H7197

Increases insurance coverage for hearing aids from one thousand five hundred dollars to one thousand seven hundred fifty dollars, per ear, for all people regardless of age.

CA AB3193

State acquisitions of goods and services: rehabilitation services.

CA SB1099

Bankruptcy: debtors.

CA SB956

Enforcement of money judgments: exemptions.