Bill > H3249

This bill requires all health insurers in South Carolina that provide dependent coverage up to age 26 to include comprehensive maternity care coverage for those dependents. The bill defines "maternity care" as medical services during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, including prenatal visits, laboratory tests, labor and delivery services, hospital stays, and postpartum support. Health insurers must provide this coverage without imposing additional premiums or copays, and the coverage must be consistent with the level of maternity care provided to primary policyholders. The bill includes some important exceptions: it does not apply to health plans exempt from state regulation under federal law (such as ERISA-governed self-insured employer plans), and religiously affiliated organizations can request an exemption if the coverage conflicts with their religious beliefs. The South Carolina Department of Insurance will be responsible for enforcing the law, establishing a complaint process, and can impose penalties on insurers who do not comply. Insurers must process and pay any denied claims for dependent maternity care coverage, and the department will submit an annual report to the General Assembly about the law's implementation. The law will take effect on the first January following the Governor's approval.

Business and Industry

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3249&session=126&summary=B