Bill > A08518

This bill requires insurance companies in New York to cover outpatient problem gambling services in their medical, major medical, or comprehensive-type insurance policies, expanding existing coverage requirements for substance use disorder services. Specifically, the bill amends three sections of the New York insurance law to add "problem gambling" alongside existing provisions for substance use disorder diagnosis and treatment, including detoxification and rehabilitation services. The coverage mandate ensures that insurance companies cannot impose more restrictive financial requirements or treatment limitations on problem gambling services than they would for other medical and surgical benefits. This means that individuals seeking outpatient treatment for problem gambling will have access to insurance coverage under the same terms and conditions as other medical services. The bill takes effect immediately and applies to any insurance policies issued, delivered, renewed, or modified after its enactment, thus helping to increase access to mental health and addiction treatment services for individuals struggling with gambling problems.

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https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8518