Bill > SB828

This bill introduces several new provisions related to medical testing and health insurance coverage, with a primary focus on genetic testing for pediatric rare diseases. Specifically, the bill creates a tax credit for employers who provide health insurance that meets certain criteria, expanding the definition of genetic screening and counseling in state law, and mandating that the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services establish an annual public comment period and reporting process for newborn screening practices. The bill also requires health insurance plans to cover rapid whole genome sequencing for children 21 and under in high-acuity inpatient settings with complex or unexplained illnesses, and to provide biomarker testing for diagnostic and treatment purposes without age restrictions. Additionally, the bill adds genetic testing for pediatric rare diseases as a covered service under MO HealthNet (Missouri's Medicaid program), including both rapid whole genome sequencing in inpatient settings and biomarker testing in outpatient settings. The tax credit provision allows businesses a $500 credit per year for providing health insurance that meets specific requirements, with a total annual cap of $20 million, and the provisions are set to take effect on January 1, 2026, with a sunset date of December 31, 2031.

Health and Social Services

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=6632536