Bill > A02476

This bill requires insurance policies in New York to provide coverage for genetic testing for three specific inherited genetic disorders: familial dysautonomia, Canavan's disease, and Tay-Sachs. These are rare genetic conditions that primarily affect certain populations, such as Ashkenazi Jewish individuals. The bill mandates that these tests be covered for both individual and group insurance policies, including those from medical expense indemnity corporations, hospital service corporations, and health service corporations. To protect patient privacy, the bill stipulates that a simple acknowledgment from the testing laboratory will be considered sufficient proof of testing. The coverage must be added to new policies immediately and to existing policies on their next anniversary date, subject to evidence of insurability. The bill allows insurance providers to apply standard annual deductibles and co-insurance to these tests, consistent with other policy benefits. By requiring this coverage, the bill aims to make genetic testing more accessible and affordable for individuals at risk of these genetic disorders, potentially enabling earlier detection and informed medical decision-making.

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https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2476