Below is the relevant legislation related to parity that has been introduced during the current or recently adjourned legislative session. State parity legislation passed in any state since 2008 is usually designed to increase compliance with the federal law and to strengthen state laws.

Are we missing any passed or introduced legislation? Let us know at info@paritytrack.org.

Introduced Legislation

Regular Session Adjourned 4/26/2019
Will convene N/A
Governor's Deadline 6/3/2019

2019

Primary Focus Medical Management Limitation
Title/Description To Amend The Prior Authorization Transparency Act; To Prohibit Prior Authorization For Medication-Assisted Treatment; And To Declare An Emergency
Citation HB 1656
Introduced 3/4/2019
Sponsor Rep. Ferguson (D)
Status Signed into law 4/12/2019
Summary

HB 1656 amends Arkansas Code Title 23, Chapter 99, Subchapter 11 by prohibiting insurers from imposing prior authorization or any other requirement other than a prescription for coverage of specified drugs used for the purposes of MAT. Additionally, such MAT drugs must be placed on the lowest tier of the prescription drug formulary.

2009

SB 913
Introduced 3/2009
Sponsor Sen. Salmon
Status Dead 5/2019
Summary
This bill tried to change the state insurance law by adding a section about autism. This bill is very similar to the bill from the 2011-2012 legislative session that did in fact add a section to the insurance law about autism coverage (summarized at the bottom of this page). Here is how this bill is different:
  • Does not require plans to cover payment for equipment that is medically necessary
  • Does not limit coverage of applied behavior analysis to children under 18
  • Allows plans to review a child’s treatment plan once a year
  • No language that exempts plans offered through the state exchange because the Affordable Care Act did not yet exist when this bill was introduced

National Parity Map

View the state parity reports to learn about legislation, regulation, and litigation related to parity implementation

National Parity Map

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Common Violations

In seeking care or services, be aware of the common ways parity rights can be violated.

Common Violations